Early assessment gives children the best chance to learn, connect and thrive. These pages are written for parents and teachers.
Depression in Children & Teenagers
Has your teenager become irritable, withdrawn, glued to their phone, and lost interest in friends and studies? Depression in young people often looks like irritability and anger rather than sadness, which is why it is easily missed.
How common is it?
About 1 in 7 adolescents aged 10–19 worldwide has a mental disorder, with depression and anxiety the most common (WHO).
Who is at higher risk?
- Family history of depression
- Bullying or cyber-bullying
- Academic pressure
- Family conflict or divorce
- Loss
- Learning difficulties or ADHD
Signs & symptoms
Irritability, sadness or tearfulness, loss of interest, falling grades, sleeping too much or too little, withdrawing to their room, talk of being worthless, self-harm or suicidal thoughts (seek help immediately).
What causes it?
Genes, brain changes during adolescence, stress, and difficult relationships at home or school.
How to know if your child is struggling — you may relate if…
- He snaps at everyone and spends all day in his room.
- She used to love dance and now won't go.
How Mind Detox Centre helps
A teen-friendly assessment, CBT adapted for adolescents, family sessions and school liaison; psychiatric referral when needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is my child just naughty, or is it a disorder?
If difficult behaviour is much more than peers, lasts 6 months or more and affects home and school, an assessment helps.
Will therapy for my child involve me?
Yes. Parents are central to child therapy; many strategies work best at home.
Can children really get depressed?
Yes. In children and teens it often shows as irritability, anger and withdrawal.