acts of kindness).
Question: Much of what we hear about in the mass media and / or social media focuses on depression in adults. What is depression and / or anxiety as observed in school-aged children? How do you recognize it?
Dr. Dédé: It is important to know that depression and anxiety often co-exist in children and youth. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, symptoms of depression may include the following: frequent sadness, tearfulness, and / or crying; decreased enjoyment in a favorite activity; feelings of hopelessness; low energy; low self-esteem; withdrawing from family and friends; increased irritability; sensitivity to rejection or failure; physical complaints( e. g., headache, stomachaches); difficulty concentrating; changes in eating or sleeping habits; poor performance in school; thoughts or expressions of self-harm. Symptoms of anxiety may include the following: excessive worry most days for weeks at a time; difficulty sleeping at night; feeling restless or fatigue when awake; difficulty concentrating; and irritability. Children and youth may exhibit periods of sadness and anxiety at different points in their life. This doesn’ t automatically mean that they exhibit clinical depression or anxiety. The problem is when these symptoms disrupt their lives to the point that they can no longer function in day-to-day tasks over an extended period of time( i. e., at least six months).
Question: When does a school setting request the services of a school psychologist?
Dr. Dédé: The school psychologist is typically introduced when the child is having difficulty maintaining daily routines and expectations when compared to a peer. If you are concerned that your child may be experiencing any of these symptoms, you should communicate these concerns to your child’ s doctor.
Question: Are there symptoms / signs that parents should recognize as indicators that a child is depressed or anxious about school?
Dr. Dédé: Children are typically inquisitive in nature until experiences occur that discourage their curiosity. If there are changes in your child’ s desire to go to school or you notice an increase in physical illnesses towards the end of the weekend into Monday morning, pay attention to these changes. Changes in academic performance and relations with peers and adults at school may also be indicators.
Question: How can parents work more effectively with teachers and school administrators to address concerns about their child’ s mental health or mental well-being? Dr. Dédé: Communication is key. Trust your gut and immediately share your concerns with school staff. Also, be open to hearing concerns from school staff, even if they aren’ t favorable. Be solution focused by asking,“ How are we going to work together to ensure that my child can be her best self at school?” Then, follow up to ensure that both you and the school are following the plan that was developed.
26 HimPower August 2018