💙 Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)


Overview:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) — often called clinical depression — is more than occasional sadness.

It’s a persistent, deep feeling of hopelessness or loss of interest that lasts for weeks or months and interferes with school, relationships, and daily life.


Children and teens with depression may not always “look sad.” They might seem irritable, withdrawn, or physically tired instead.

Early recognition and emotional support are essential for healing 🌻


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📊 Prevalence & Facts

• Depression affects about 3–8% of children and up to 13% of teens globally (World Health Organization, 2023).

• In the U.S., 1 in 5 adolescents (ages 12–17) experienced a major depressive episode in 2023 (SAMHSA, 2024).

• Suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth ages 10–24, often linked to untreated depression (CDC, 2023).

• Around 60% of children with depression also have anxiety or another mental health condition.


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💭 Common Symptoms in Youth

• Persistent sadness, emptiness, or irritability

• Loss of interest in favorite activities

• Changes in sleep (too much or too little)

• Fatigue, low energy, or moving slowly

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Trouble concentrating or declining grades

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness

• Withdrawal from friends and family

• Thoughts or talk about death or self-harm


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🧠 Why It Happens


Depression develops from a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors, including:

• Family history of depression or anxiety

• Chemical imbalances in the brain (low serotonin, dopamine)

• Stressful life events (divorce, loss, bullying, trauma)

• Chronic medical conditions or pain

• Hormonal changes during puberty


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🌸 How Families Can Help

• Encourage open conversations — ask gently, “You seem quiet lately, want to talk?”

• Avoid minimizing feelings (“You have nothing to be sad about”) — instead, validate emotions.

• Keep routines stable — regular meals, rest, and calm time together help build security.

• Monitor for self-harm warning signs: isolation, giving away items, dark notes, or risky behavior.

• Involve a child psychiatrist or therapist — talk therapy (like CBT or interpersonal therapy) and, if needed, antidepressant medications can be life-changing.

• If suicidal thoughts occur, seek immediate help by calling or texting 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).


💬 Depression doesn’t define a child — with compassion, consistency, and care, recovery is absolutely possible. 💖


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References:

• World Health Organization. (2023). Adolescent mental health: Depression overview. Retrieved from https://www.who.int

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2024). Key Indicators of Mental Health and Substance Use in the United States. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Youth Risk Behavior Data Summary & Trends Report: Suicide and Mental Health.

• American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., Text Revision).