Know the signs of depression in children.

Children and teenagers can experience depression just
as adults can. The signs of depression in children and
teenagers include being angry or irritable, overeating
or not eating enough, having trouble sleeping or
sleeping too much, difficulty concentrating, loss of
energy or low motivation, feelings of sadness, crying
more than usual, headaches, stomachaches, lack of
interest in playing with friends, frequent absences from
school or poor performance in school, drug or alcohol
abuse, or thoughts of death or suicide. Look for
behaviors that are out of the ordinary. For example,
missing money can be a sign that a teenager is stealing
to buy alcohol or drugs.
If you see signs of depression, talk with your child,
listen carefully, and get professional help. Depression
is treatable. Your health care provider, school
counselor, or EAP can help you find a counselor
or therapist.