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Understanding Depression: Depression Among Children

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In a series of conversations initiated this year following the death of comedian Robin Williams, Kate Lochte examines facets of depression with Murray State University assistant professor of psychology, Dr. Michael Bordieri.  Today, they look at what's unique about depression in younger people.

Bordieri says it’s not always easy to diagnose, but depression can affect anyone, even young children and adolescents. He says the team at Murray State’s Psychological Center have made new efforts to identify the warning signs of depression in younger generations. This includes things like irritability, lashing out, and more.

He says one of the most important things parents can do to help with their child’s depression is listen to them. Talking with children just to see how they’re doing can make a big impact on their emotional health.

“Having that open line of communication can help with understanding the difference between what we would consider moodiness and something that might be depression,” Bordieri said.

As for therapeutic options, Bordieri says fun and positive activities go a long way. Pharmaceutical intervention can be called upon too.

Bordieri says self-harm is more common among depressed adolescents than people realize. He stressed again that open communication is essential to fighting the disease, even if a parent defers that role to a professional. Replacing those self-harming behaviors with something positive, known as “self-soothing”, is a common method of treatment.

This is the latest installment in a series of bi-weekly conversations about depression with Dr. Michael Bordieri, assistant professor of psychology at Murray State.  Dr. Bordieri’s contributions to this series are strictly informational, and should not to be construed as any form of psychotherapy, counseling, diagnosis, or treatment. Any health condition, including depression, should be evaluated and treated by a qualified professional in the context of an established professional relationship.

The next discussion airs January 13th.

Listen to more of the series here.

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