Depression in Children:
The Message Behind the Anger

A child expressing anger may not be unusual or something to be worried about, anger is a human emotion that we will all feel and express from time to time. While anger is only an emotion, it can become concerning if it becomes persistent and intense, causing your child to act out of character or become destructive. It isn’t the emotion that is the problem, it is often the behavior surrounding it that is concerning. Anger can also be a sign of something more, such as depression or anxiety. It can be helpful to consult a trained therapist to thoroughly assess what may be going on for your child.

Recognizing the Connection Between Anger and Depression

According to AACAP (American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry), 1 in every 20 children has depression. While depression is prevalent in children, it may be difficult to spot. Due to this many children go undiagnosed and untreated.

Why are early symptoms being missed? Common symptoms of depression are often written off as being part of growing up. For example, irritability, changes in appetite, oversleeping and staying in their rooms (isolating). These behaviors are often expected as children get older and begin to try to be more independent.

If depression isn’t on your radar because you think it’s a teen or adult “thing,” you are likely to miss the signs. According to Dr. Jess Shatkin of the New York University Child Study Center, children, as young as infants, can experience depression.

Is Your Child’s Anger a Sign of Depression?

Depression can cause children to act out, expressing their sadness and frustration through anger. This can especially be true if depression has been experienced by a close family member as there is a biological component to depression. Traumatic experiences and extreme changes or distress can also be catalysts for depressive symptoms.

Depression may not necessarily manifest in the “classic” way, which is sadness. The gloom can confuse your child, so they may react to it in unusual ways. Instead of just being sad, they may misbehave or act out, not knowing how else to express their confusion. Some children just naturally have a “short fuse,” and anger isn’t unusual for them, but excessive and unreasonable anger must not be ignored.

Knowing the symptoms can help you to identify when it’s more than anger. It can be scary when you begin to identify concerning symptoms, know that help is available, and you are not alone. When symptoms are left untreated, they will often get worse.

What’s Next?

Depressive symptoms won’t vanish on their own. While they will not go into remission on their own, you may be relieved to know that depression is highly treatable. Depression can be effectively treated by a therapist who is knowledgeable in this area.

Depression can cause a great deal of suffering; it can prevent growth and impact the entire family. It is natural to feel overwhelmed or upset when you see your child experiencing anger and depression. Counseling can help.

Resolving Anger Early

There is great benefit in early diagnosis and treatment. Reaching out to a trained counselor can make a world of difference for your child and your family. Know the signs and symptoms of depression and reach out if you notice they are affecting your child.

Your child’s emotional health can depend on you. Do not be afraid to reach out to a trained therapist. Help is available with a caring and experienced therapist independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Cameron, NC. Call today to schedule your first appointment.

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