5 Myths About Depression In Children & Adolescents Debunked

Depression, or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide, including children and adolescents. However, there are many myths and misconceptions about depression in young people that can prevent them from getting the help they need.

Read on as we aim to debunk five common myths about depression in children and adolescents.

Myth 1: Children and adolescents can't get depressed

One of the most pervasive myths is that children and adolescents are too young to experience depression. Many people believe that childhood and adolescence are carefree times, free from the burdens that can cause depression in adults. However, research has shown that depression can affect individuals at any age, including very young children. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH, 2020), approximately 3.2% of children aged 3-17 years (about 1.9 million) have diagnosed depression.

This myth can lead to the underdiagnosis and undertreatment of depression in young people, making it crucial to recognize that they, too, can suffer from this condition. Consulting a child psychologist in Singapore can be essential for addressing and managing this condition effectively.

Myth 2: Depression in young people is just a phase

Another common misconception is that depression in children and adolescents is just a phase or a part of growing up that they will eventually outgrow. While it is true that many young people experience mood swings and emotional ups and downs, depression is a serious mental health condition that goes beyond typical developmental changes. Depression can have long-lasting effects on a child's emotional, social, and academic development.

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found that untreated depression in youth can lead to more severe mental health issues in adulthood, including chronic depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse (Weisz et al., 2006). Recognizing and treating depression early is essential to prevent these long-term consequences.

Myth 3: Depressed children and adolescents are just seeking attention

Some people mistakenly believe that young people who show signs of depression are simply seeking attention or being manipulative. This myth can be particularly harmful, as it can lead to the dismissal of a child's or adolescent's feelings and discourage them from seeking help. Additionally, loneliness in adolescents can further intensify these feelings of depression, making the situation even more dire. Depression is not a choice, and it is not something that young people can simply snap out of.

Depression is a medical condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring or dismissing a young person's symptoms can exacerbate their condition and make it more difficult for them to recover.

Myth 4: Good parenting prevents depression in children and adolescents

While good parenting can certainly contribute to a child's overall well-being, it is not a guarantee against depression. Depression is a complex condition influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Even children from loving and supportive families can experience depression.

According to a study published in Journal of the American Medical Association Psychiatry (JAMA), genetic factors account for approximately 40% of the risk for developing depression, indicating that it is not solely caused by environmental factors such as parenting (Sullivan, Neale, & Kendler, 2000). It is important for parents to understand that their child's depression is not a reflection of their parenting skills and to focus on providing support and seeking professional help.

Myth 5: Antidepressants are the only treatment for depression in young people

A prevalent misconception is that antidepressants are the sole effective treatment for depression in children and adolescents. While medication can play a crucial role, especially in cases of moderate to severe depression where psychotherapy alone may be insufficient, it is not the only option. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH, 2021), the most effective treatment often combines psychotherapy—such as cognitive-behavioural therapy or interpersonal therapy—with medication. It’s important to note that the choice and use of medication should be carefully monitored by healthcare providers due to potential side effects and considerations regarding the developing brain. This integrated approach provides a more holistic and individualised treatment for young people experiencing depression.

Psychotherapy can help young people develop coping skills, address negative thought patterns, and improve their overall emotional regulation. It is important for parents and caregivers to work with a mental health professional, such as a child's therapist in Singapore, to determine the best treatment plan for their child.

Conclusion

Debunking these myths is crucial for promoting a better understanding of depression in children and adolescents. By recognizing that young people can experience depression, acknowledging that it is not just a phase, taking their symptoms seriously, understanding the multifaceted causes of depression, and exploring a variety of treatment options, we can provide the support and care that young people need to thrive. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference in the lives of children and adolescents struggling with depression, helping them to lead healthier, happier lives.

References

National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Major depression. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression

National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Child and Adolescent Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/child-and-adolescent-mental-health

Sullivan, P. F., Neale, M. C., & Kendler, K. S. (2000). Genetic epidemiology of major depression: Review and meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry, 57(10), 1029-1032. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.157.10.1552

Weisz, J. R., McCarty, C. A., & Valeri, S. M. (2006). Effects of psychotherapy for depression in children and adolescents: A meta-analysis. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 45(3), 308-318. https://doi.org/10.3138/cjhs.242-A8