Depression

More than 20%  of kids and teenagers aged 12 to 17 experience depression. At Galaxy Pediatrics in Red Oak and Plano, Texas, the skilled pediatric doctors and nurse practitioners screen for depression in your child and offer treatments that help boost their mood. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.

What is depression?

Depression can become a serious mental health concern when left untreated. It’s characterized by severe or constant sad feelings that negatively impact your child’s well-being. Depression affects how children and teenagers think, feel, and behave, and it can become dangerous. Turn to Galaxy Pediatrics if you suspect your child or teen is depressed.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Symptoms of depression in young people may include:

• Persistent sadness
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Feeling hopeless, worthless, guilty, or empty
• Thoughts or talk of suicide
• Crying
• Angry outbursts
• Frustration
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Weight loss or gain
• Sleeping too much
• Restlessness
• Agitation
• Anxiety 
• Slowed body movements, thinking, or speech
• Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Avoiding social interactions
• Being overly sensitive
• Feeling misunderstood
• Drug or alcohol misuse

Your child or teen might also experience physical health concerns, such as headaches, back pain, or other aches and pains. 

They may struggle with grades or behavior at school, work, relationships, or social activities because of depression.

What increases the risk of depression?

The cause isn’t always clear, but depression risk factors can include:

• Brain chemistry changes
• Hormone fluctuations 
• Family history of depression
• Getting bullied
• Being self-critical
• Low self-esteem
• Drug or alcohol misuse
• Some medications
• Chronic illnesses
• Anxiety disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Eating disorders
• Social isolation
• Family conflicts
• Ongoing or extreme stress

Seeking treatment for a child’s or teen’s depression can boost their mood and help restore their quality of life.

How is depression diagnosed?

The Galaxy Pediatrics experts screen for depression by completing a psychiatric evaluation. They discuss your child’s moods, behaviors, thoughts, emotions, lifestyle habits, and more to learn if they have depression, anxiety, or another mental health condition. Their provider may order blood tests to check for underlying health conditions, such as thyroid problems. 

How is depression treated?

Treating depression often consists of making healthy lifestyle modifications, taking medications, or undergoing therapy. The Galaxy Pediatrics experts may refer your child to a therapist for counseling. It’s also helpful to stay active, minimize stress, eat nutritious foods, and get plenty of sleep. Consider changes to your child’s social environment if it’s the cause of their sadness.

Schedule a depression screening at Galaxy Pediatrics by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.