Most people are not aware of the fact that depression in children does exist…! Many of us do not realize that just like adults, small children, and teenagers can struggle with varying types of depression and levels of severity. However, adults can recognize and understand the symptoms of depression whereas a child would likely feel confused, frustrated, and even angry because of the symptoms being experienced and no understanding of why. With the information in this article, parents would find it easier to recognize a potential problem and also understand treatments that could be considered. Depression in Children and Teens When talking about depression , the way it affects a person’s life, and the various methods for dealing with depression, most people make a connection between this mental disorder and adults. Statistics show close to 4.4% (approximately 2.7 million) of U.S. children aged 3-17 years suffer from depression and over 8% of teenagers have depression. [Ref. CDC Data and S...
An intrusive thought is an unwelcome, involuntary thought, image, or unpleasant idea that may become an obsession, is upsetting or distressing, and can feel difficult to manage or eliminate. (source: Wikipedia ) Common examples of intrusive thoughts include unwanted, intrusive thoughts about the safety of oneself or others, causing distress, and thoughts of performing dangerous actions. These thoughts may lead to negative behaviors, which may increase vulnerability to future experiences of trauma. Intrusive thoughts have been linked to recent life stress, sleep deprivation, prior anxiety, and childhood abuse. The state of depression , suicidal ideation, or anxiety may also be caused by the release of stress hormones. Analysis of studies in subjects who had experienced prolonged periods of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) found that intrusive thoughts and flashbacks are associated with greater than 50% of symptoms, especially memory fragmentation. Intrusive thoughts often occur ...