Increasing Numbers of Children And Adolescents Suffer From Clinical Depression
Today, as much as five percent of the youth population may be suffering from clinical depression. Increasing rates of depression among both children and adolescents has been in evidence for some time, but only within the last few decades has it been taken seriously. Rising awareness among parents as well as improving diagnostic techniques have assisted in revealing this issue, increasing the availability of treatment for children and teens who are depressed.
As it has been found that depression tends to more frequently occur in certain families, it is likely that genetic factors contribute to the biochemical causes of this illness. However, no single cause has been found. When a child or teen with a predisposition for depression is exposed to certain environmental and social factors, they may exhibit symptoms of this illness early on.
Currently, we have a social environment that has a greater number of psychosocial influences than in previous eras. The argument could be made that this particular point in time has no more negative influences than prior periods. Even accepting that premise, the situation is exacerbated in new ways by the continual flow of information via the media and the internet. Current consensus is that low self-esteem is probably the single biggest factor, or at least occurs regularly within the symptoms of this childhood illness. The influence of viewing one’s self negatively helps create a pessimistic worldview. The deluge of information regarding negative current events magnifies their pressure on children and adolescents.
Today’s economic climate and unemployment rates are also making an impression on children and teens, especially in households that are affected. When a parent who was formerly working is now unemployed, this places stress on the child. It can serve to lower self-esteem and increase pessimism. A lack of discretionary income affects children as well. They will be less able to take part in activities with their peers, and this can create social problems as well. If the family should actually lose their home, the children’s view of themselves and their place in the world will suffer. This feeling of displacement and uncertainty may bring about symptoms of depression, particularly if a child has a genetic predisposition for the illness.
Growing up can be difficult in the best of times. Between peer pressures and parental expectations, the formative years can become a crucible of forces that adversely affect a child’s sense of self. With economic uncertainty and social issues compounding the stress, the problem becomes more acute. Thus, the rates of mental health issues occurring in youth are likely to continue increasing. Fortunately, early diagnosis has become more common as the population becomes more aware of the symptoms. Psychiatric treatment of childhood depression has expanded. Support options for the parents and families of these kids have also become more readily available. These factors will combine to help children and adolescents overcome the symptoms of childhood depression, giving them the opportunity to succeed in their social and behavioral functioning, academics, and their future life as they reach adulthood.
If you suspect that your child or teen may be depressed, contact Dr. Ron Zedek, a nationally recognized psychiatrist in Las Vegas with more than 12 years of experience in effectively and gently treating children and adolescents with depression, bipolar disease, anxiety and many other mental health issues. Powered by SEO 2.0 Services
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