Understanding Depression or Anxiety in Children
Welcome to the BrainX Movement breakdown of Depression & Anxiety and the symptoms.
Depression and anxiety Doesn't have to Define Your Child
Depression and anxiety are common mental health conditions that can affect children, impacting their emotional well-being and daily functioning. If left untreated, these conditions can disrupt a child's life significantly. These disorders are prevalent among young people, with approximately 1 in 6 children aged 5-16 experiencing a probable mental health disorder.
What is Depression or Anxiety?
Depression and anxiety are distinct but often co-occurring mental health conditions that can significantly impact a child’s life.
Depression is characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. In children, it may manifest as irritability, changes in sleep patterns, changes in appetite, and difficulty concentrating. Monitoring a child’s symptoms, such as these changes, is crucial for early detection and intervention.
Anxiety involves excessive worry, fear, or unease about various situations. Children with anxiety may experience physical symptoms such as stomach aches, headaches, or rapid heartbeat. It is important to consult a child’s doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Older children may be more adept at recognising clinical depression and articulating its causes and consequences.
The BrainX way of supporting children with Depression / Anxiety -
Addressing the cause not supporting the symptoms.
By truly understanding the brain’s developmental process, BrainX categorically believes that Depression and Anxiety are not life sentences and through movement, exercise, nutrition and education all behaviours / symptoms can be reversed we....
- Offer no medication
- Assess for Retained Primitive Reflexes
- Assess for Hemispheric Imbalances
- Assess for Sensory Dysfunctions
- Assess lifestyle habits
& offer exercises and movement programs to rebalance the neurological foundations, helping our children thrive.
The Major Neurological Milestones...
Through our research and clinical practice, we repeatedly see these major neurological milestones as the causality of Depression & Anxiety :
Unintegrated Primitive Reflexes, dysfunctional Breathing, sensory delays, poor nutrition (excess sugars) lack of movement / exercise coupled with low self esteem and self worth.
Learn more about Primitive Reflexes, and how they need to be 'turned off' >
Signs and Physical Symptoms
Common indicators of depression or anxiety in children include:
- Persistent sadness or worry
- Changes in a child’s sleep patterns or appetite
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Physical complaints without apparent medical cause
- Withdrawal from friends and activities
- Irritability or mood swings
- Excessive fear or panic in specific situations
Trouble sleeping is a significant manifestation of anxiety and can impact a child’s overall well-being.
Age-specific manifestations may vary, with younger children often expressing emotional distress through physical symptoms or behavioural changes, while older children and adolescents may exhibit more typical adult-like symptoms
Causes and Risk Factors
The development of depression or anxiety in children can be attributed to various factors:
Epi Genetic factors: Family history of mental health disorders can increase a child’s risk. (not genetic factors)
Environmental influences: Stressful life events, trauma, missed movement milestones and unintegrated Primitive Reflexes or significant changes in a child's life can contribute to the onset of these conditions. While occasional sadness is a normal part of every child's life, persistent feelings of helplessness can indicate a
more serious issue, potentially leading to severe consequences if not addressed. Significant life events can make a child depressed and contribute to childhood depression. Recognising childhood depression is crucial, as timely intervention can help children cope with depression effectively.
Current Treatment Options for Childhood Depression
Below is the traditional thought process of treatment options. It is completely outdated. We have successfully treated many children with Depression - by firstly addressing Retained Primitive Reflexes, then Sensory Dysfunctions, breathing and finally postural, stability and coordination dysfunction. Then behavioural therapies become effective. Unless suicidal we do not advocate longterm medication for our children.
Treatment for depression or anxiety in children often involves a combination of approaches:
Behavioural therapies: Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is widely used and effective for both depression and anxiety in children. It helps them identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. These therapies can help a child feel better and foster emotional stability.
Medications: In some cases, particularly for moderate to severe depression or anxiety, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed under close medical supervision. Recognising depression in children early is crucial, and medication can play a significant role in their treatment.
Educational interventions: School-based support and accommodations can help children manage their symptoms and maintain academic performance.
Interrupt or intrude on others (e.g., butting into conversations or games)
Primx Programme
Primx Programme
See if your child would benefit from our course and train
Living with Depression or Anxiety
Coping strategies for children with depression or anxiety include:
- Establishing a consistent routine
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Practising relaxation techniques
- Maintaining social connections
- Expressing feelings through art or journaling
Tips for parents and caregivers:
- Provide a supportive and understanding environment
- Encourage open communication
- Model healthy coping strategies
- Ensure proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise
- Collaborate with the child’s healthcare providers and school
- Address concerns related to a child’s mental health by seeking support resources such as a helpline
- and advice from organisations like YoungMinds
- Understand that it is normal for children to feel sad occasionally, but persistent sadness may require
- professional intervention
Conclusion
Early intervention is crucial in overcoming depression and anxiety in children. With proper support, treatment, children can overcome their symptoms effectively. It's important to maintain a positive outlook and encourage children to seek help when needed. Remember, these conditions are treatable, and all children can go on to lead fulfilling lives.
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