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Get to know us Welcome to drsaurabhjaiswal.in, your trusted destination for comprehensive mental health care in Lucknow and beyond. Led by Dr. Saurabh Jaiswal,
Get to know us Welcome to drsaurabhjaiswal.in, your trusted destination for comprehensive mental health care in Lucknow and beyond. Led by Dr. Saurabh Jaiswal,
26
November
Childhood is often seen as a naturally joyful and carefree phase of life — full of play, exploration, learning, and emotional growth. However, for many children, this period becomes overshadowed by sadness, irritability, withdrawal, and hopelessness. Childhood onset depression is real, more common than most people realize, and can deeply impact a child’s emotional and social development if not recognized early.
The misconception that “kids cannot get depressed” often delays necessary help. But just like adults, children can experience clinical depression that affects how they think, feel, behave, and function at home and school. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can transform a child’s life, helping them grow into emotionally healthy and resilient individuals.
Childhood onset depression refers to persistent sadness, mood changes, and emotional distress lasting for weeks or months — severe enough to interfere with daily life. Unlike adults, children may not always express sadness directly. They may show irritability, anger, behavioral issues, or a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed.
It is important to understand that childhood depression is a medical condition — not stubbornness, attention-seeking behavior, or poor parenting.
Many children suffer silently because adults misinterpret or overlook the warning signs. Contributing factors include:
Children often cannot articulate their emotions clearly. Instead of saying they are “depressed,” they may say, “I don’t feel good,” or withdraw from activities.
Symptoms like irritability, refusal to study, or anger may be misunderstood as disobedience rather than emotional distress.
In many families, emotional struggles are minimized due to stigma or lack of awareness, making it difficult for children to seek help.
Parents often assume children “grow out” of emotional issues, which is not always the case.
Academic difficulties, screen addiction, or interpersonal conflicts may mask underlying depression.
Because of these factors, childhood depression frequently remains undetected — sometimes until symptoms become severe.
The symptoms of depression in children can be diverse and subtle, ranging from emotional and behavioral changes to physical complaints.
These require immediate psychiatric help:
Childhood depression is caused by biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors.
Genetics play a significant role — children with a family history of depression may develop symptoms earlier.
This makes early diagnosis and timely intervention essential.
Parents should consider consulting a mental health professional if:
Timely help can prevent long-term emotional and behavioral difficulties.
Diagnosis requires a detailed and child-friendly approach. A trained child psychiatrist evaluates symptoms, history, and behavior patterns.
Standardized tools help measure severity and identify related issues.
Childhood depression often coexists with:
A comprehensive evaluation helps build a precise treatment plan.
Understanding the child’s behavior across different environments — home, school, and social situations — is essential.
Accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment and long-term recovery.
Childhood depression is highly treatable with the right approach. Treatment is tailored to the child’s age, severity of symptoms, and family environment.
Medication may be recommended for moderate to severe depression, especially when psychotherapy alone is insufficient. Antidepressants such as SSRIs may be prescribed, monitored closely for safety.
Medication is never the first or only treatment — it is combined with therapy for best results.
Lifestyle changes play a crucial role:
Small but consistent changes help improve mood and stability.
Schools can support recovery by providing:
Since children spend most of their day at school, such support is vital.
Parents need guidance to understand their child’s emotional needs. Helpful strategies include:
Active family involvement increases treatment effectiveness.
Emotionally secure children are less likely to develop depression.
Many children with depression also have other conditions.
A multi-disciplinary treatment approach ensures that all conditions are addressed comprehensively.
The sooner a child receives help, the better their overall emotional and cognitive development.
A trained child psychiatrist plays a crucial role in:
For families seeking expert support, consulting a Psychiatrist in Lucknow can ensure proper evaluation and timely treatment.
With years of experience from top medical institutes, he ensures each child receives personalized and effective mental health care.
Childhood onset depression is a serious but treatable condition. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking professional help can make a life-changing difference. Children thrive when their emotions are acknowledged, supported, and treated with care.
If your child shows signs of sadness, irritability, withdrawal, or behavioral changes, don’t ignore them. Early help leads to brighter futures.
📍 Clinic Address:
Dr. Saurabh Jaiswal | Neuro-Psychiatrist in Lucknow
2/290, Hahnemann Rd, near Sahara (MAX) Hospital,
Virat Khand 2, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow – 226010
📞 Contact: +91 9199187709
🌐 Website: www.drsaurabhjaiswal.com
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