HEALTH & WELLNESS
FACTS FOR FAMILIES
Depression in Children
and Teens
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
N
ot only adults become depressed.
Children and teenagers also may
have depression, as well. More
than one in seven teens experi-
ence depression each year. Depression is a
treatable medical illness. Depression is more
than just a couple of sad days. It involves
14 HimPower August 2018
ongoing feelings of sadness or irritability
that interfere with a child or adolescent's
ability to function.
Children under stress, who experience
loss, or who have attentional, learning,
conduct, or anxiety disorders are at a
higher risk for depression. An increased