Many parents wonder what the signs of depression in children look like. While it’s normal for kids to have ups and downs, depression is different. It’s a medical condition that influences how a child feels, thinks, and behaves each day.
This guide will help you understand when your child’s emotions or behaviors may signal something more serious. You’ll learn what to watch for, how symptoms can vary by age, and ways to help your child.
Signs of Depression in Children
Depression symptoms in children can manifest as emotional, physical, or behavioral changes, and they may look different depending on how old they are.
According to the DSM-5, a formal diagnosis requires these symptoms to be present for the same two-week period, including either a depressed mood or loss of interest. They must also reflect a change from the child’s usual behavior [*].
Emotional
Emotional signs reflect how a child feels most of the time. These are usually the first clues of depression and may be more noticeable. Examples include:
- Persistent sadness, tearfulness, or frequent crying
- Irritability or frequent anger outbursts (common in children rather than adults)
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Restlessness or slowed movements
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities the child usually enjoys
However, note that emotional changes in children can sometimes be subtle, such as a drop in enthusiasm for school or hobbies.
Physical
Physical signs of childhood depression reflect changes in the body or daily routines. Children may not always express their feelings in words, so these signs can be important indicators. Examples include:
- Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping)
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Fatigue or low energy
- Unexplained aches, headaches, or stomachaches
It’s easy to overlook these symptoms as typical childhood complaints or minor illnesses. If these physical changes continue over time, they may point to emotional distress rather than a temporary condition.
Behavioral
A child’s behavior may shift in ways that impact their learning or interactions. Examples include:
- Social withdrawal from friends, family, or activities
- Difficulty concentrating or a drop in school performance
- Increased risk-taking behaviors or self-harm (in older children)
- Frequent irritability, tantrums, or oppositional behavior
Behavioral symptoms can indicate inner emotional struggle. Some children externalize their distress through irritability or disruptive actions, while others internalize it by becoming quiet, withdrawn, or disengaged from usual activities [*].
Age-Specific Signs of Depression
Depression may present differently depending on a child’s developmental stage. Children evolve as they grow, which affects how they experience and express depressive symptoms.
Toddlers and Preschoolers (ages 1–5):
- Excessive clinginess or fearfulness
- Frequent temper tantrums
- Loss of previously learned skills (e.g., toileting)
- Irritability or prolonged sadness
School-Age Children (ages 6–12):
- Persistent sadness or frequent complaints of physical aches
- Decline in school performance or loss of interest in hobbies
- Withdrawal from friends or family
- Difficulty getting along with classmates or fitting in at school
- Negative self-talk, guilt, or feelings of inadequacy
Children in this age group may start to experience negative thoughts, including guilt or hopelessness, and their difficulties relating to others may stand out.
Supporting a Child with Depression
Always remember that depression doesn’t simply go away on its own, so noticing the signs your child is depressed early is key. The sooner support begins, the better the chances of helping them cope [*].
Meeting with a mental health professional, like a school psychologist, counselor, therapist, or psychiatrist, can help clarify whether your child’s behaviors are stress-related or a sign of depression. They can guide the next steps for evaluation or treatment.
Familiarizing yourself with child depression symptoms is an important first step. Understanding what to look for helps parents and caregivers provide better support.
Therapy and medication are central to treating childhood depression. In addition, caring adults can help by having calm, open conversations, maintaining healthy and consistent routines at home, encouraging regular physical activity, and creating a safe environment for the child.
Resources
Here are some trusted resources you and your child can turn to for support and information:
