PERSISTENT DEPRESSIVE DISORDER IN CHILDREN AND TEENS

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Written By Chukwudiebube Nwachukwu

A child or teen with persistent depressive disorder will have a sad or grumpy mood most days for at least a year. They might also have trouble eating, sleep, feeling tired, not feeling good about themselves, having trouble focusing, making decisions, or feeling hopeless.

The condition, though less severe than major depression, persists for extended periods. It is characterised by a persistent feeling of mild depression or irritability, although it occasionally triggers more intense emotions. Unfortunately, it often remains undiagnosed and, if left untreated, can escalate into more severe mental health and behavioural issues. Fortunately, it can be effectively managed through psychotherapy and other means.

Exposure to traumatic experiences in children can lead to mental illnesses such as depression, eating disorders, behavioural and emotional disorders, anxiety disorders and so on.

Traumatic experiences include: Having a long-term illness, being bullied, witnessing domestic violence, sexual abuse / harassment, changing home or school, a dysfunctional family, separated or divorced parents, death of someone close to them and so on.

RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH PDD

  • Genetics

  • Imbalance in the brain (lack of neurotransmitters)

  • Bullying

  • Traumas

  • A dysfunctional family

  • Environmental factors

  • Divorce or separation

  • Domestic violence

  • Physical and sexual abuse

  • School difficulties like exam failure or bullying

  • Social isolation

  • Weight or health issues

  • Family disharmony

  • Poor communication in the family

Symptoms OF PDD:

  • Reduced or Increased appetite

  • Insomnia or hypersonic

  • Low energy

  • Poor self esteem

  • Feeling hopeless

  • Difficulties concentrating etc

How can I improve my child’s mental health?

  • Engage in face-to-face activities or interactions with your child like singing, dancing, playing and talking.

  • Learn to listen to and follow your child's lead.

  • Allow them to choose but guide them rightly in their decisions.

  • Support and encourage their curiosity and don’t shout them down.

  • Help them to prioritise saying NO to things that are not healthy for them.

Signs my child MAY need help

  • Persistent sadness or anger

  • Social isolation or withdrawal

  • Excessive anxiety and fearfulness.

  • Clinginess

  • Defiant behaviour

  • Disrupted sleep and eating patterns

  • Difficulties with school and academic performance

  • Addiction

  • Mood swings or irritability

  • Regression

-UZOAMAKA NWACHUKWU

Chukwudiebube Nwachukwu
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