SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2024
Annalie Rodrigues
Depression in children is a mood disorder which leads them to feel constantly sad, hopeless and irritable. Although it is common for children to have mood swings, throw tantrums and feel sad for some time, this is usually a phase which passes off soon and they return to their normal state of mind. Depression on the other hand, leaves children perpetually sad and the feeling of hopelessness lingers. Its debilitating effects can also affect their sleep, appetite and relationships with others, preventing them from enjoying their childhood and sometimes paving the way for suicidal thoughts.
In a slow paced, idyllic state like Goa, where one enjoys the simple pleasures of the serene beaches, picturesque landscapes and calming laid-back atmosphere, people often find it hard to believe that Goans too suffer from depression. Yet, in this seemingly joyful state, a lot of children struggle with depression and related mental health issues, making it imperative to familiarise oneself with the symptoms and treatment required for these children to provide them with help and support.
Childhood Depression Awareness Day began in 1997, when parents who struggled with seeing their children suffering from depression decided to act. They therefore formed the National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health and initiated Childhood Depression Awareness Day.
In most cultures, childhood has been considered an important stage in the formation of an individual because it is at this age that they form an understanding of themselves and the world around them which shapes their identity. This is also a period in which they are the most fragile and vulnerable and need to be cared for and nurtured. Mothers often choose to quit their jobs in order to be present for their children and support them during this crucial stage. During the last few years, the Covid pandemic has caused a decrease in the quality of life and increase in mental health issues making depression a prevalent concern. Although depression can affect anyone, its impact on children is much more worrisome and the ever-increasing number of suicides among children and adolescents is heart-breaking.
Research has shown that about 3 percent of children and teens between the ages of 3 and 17 have depression and it is more common in teens as they deal with a change in their bodies and lifestyle. Yet, this is only the official diagnosis while several other children suffering from depression go undetected. The cure for depression demands an awareness that children generally do not have as they are vulnerable and find it difficult to defend themselves mentally and emotionally. The responsibility therefore lies on the shoulders of their parents and elders to identify these problems and guide them along their healing journey. Parents should not be embarrassed to accept their child’s depression and admit that they need help. This small step can pave the way towards the complete eradication of the taboo and stereotypes surrounding mental health issues in Goa.
Roselle Coutinho, a psychologist working at a school in Goa says “Depression in children is prominent in Goa although it often goes unnoticed and unidentified. Children from primary classes itself begin showing symptoms of depression usually due to problems at home. Some common causes for this are parents being partial to other siblings and not spending sufficient time with them. Among older children studying in Class 6 to 9, their depression usually stems from unhealthy friendships and relationships. Some signs of depression that parents should look out for in their children are refusal to eat, being withdrawn, avoiding interactions, having a short temper and throwing frequent tantrums. This being said, depression is a very sensitive topic, therefore, a proper diagnosis should be done to avoid mislabelling children that may actually just be going through a regular mood change.”
She further adds, “A counsellor can be approached to help in such cases. In our school, most children are aware about the importance of mental health and visit us, counsellors, whenever they need to talk. Yet, there are many children who are hesitant to approach us and need to be sent by their teachers and parents for counselling. My advice to parents, as a psychologist dealing with children, would be to spend quality time with them and give them due attention especially before the age of 9 since these are their formative years. Do not belittle or undermine their problems as this would prevent them from opening up further. When children take a step forward and start going for counselling, they should be encouraged, parents and teachers should refrain from labelling or judging them. These steps can go a long way towards paving the way for a more supportive mental health system in Goa.”
Aloma Rodrigues, a children's counsellor at a school says, “To help prevent kids from feeling depressed, it is very important to focus on creating a supportive and loving environment at home and encouraging them to talk about their feelings. Promoting a healthy lifestyle with good nutrition and regular exercise and ensuring that they get enough sleep plays an important role on their mental health as well. Helping them build strong social connections with friends and family can help them feel happier and more resilient which can reduce their chances of going into depression.”
