Depression in young people can be difficult to identify. Many children and teenagers do not want to talk about feelings. In youths aged 12 to 19, 5% of males and 12% of females will experience depression (CMHA). In Canada, suicide is the second leading cause of death in people aged 15 to 29. We need to remember that what may seem insignificant to us, as an adult, may be overwhelming to a young person.
In young children, depression can look like:
- pretending to be sick
- refusing to go to school
- clinging to a parent
In older children, depression can look like:
- moping or brooding
- getting into trouble at school
- irritability
- feeling misunderstood
- less interest in sports and social activites
- sudden outbursts
Depression is the most common mental illness experienced by older adults. It is not a normal part of aging but is often overlooked as a sign of aging.
In older adults, depression may present as:
- memory problems and confusion
- deceased appetite
- physical complaints with no cause (e.g.: stomach pain)
- insomnia
“Please if you feel shame and/or embarrassment about your mental health struggles – reach out. I can help. We can help”
(Michael Landsberg)
Mental Health Resources:
- Kids Help Phone https://kidshelpphone.ca
- Good2Talk https://good2talk.ca
