Children who suffer from depression may have a tendency to exhibit behaviors or symptoms that a parent may not believe to be depression at the onset. Faking an illness, refusal to attend or disinterest in school or favorite activities are a few of several symptoms of adolescent depression. Additionally, the child may suffer from mood swings or a bout of negativity or grouchiness. Fears, such as the loss of a parent, may become more present and can result in the child having a need to cling to their parent. It has only been in the last 20 years that childhood depression has been taken seriously. Parents and educators are becoming more aware of the symptoms of depression and are now able to seek out a therapy or counseling to treat heir child.
If a parent or teacher notices behavior changes this may indeed be the time to seek the advice of a pediatrician. A pediatrician will first rule out illness through tests and a physical examination. If it is found that there is no illness present; parents can then decide along with the aid of their pediatrician to seek out an evaluation to get therapy or counseling for depression.