Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools

School Health Promotion

 (Provided by the Summit County Health Department)

Depression in children is the most commonly misdiagnosed childhood disorder because the symptoms vary widely from child to child. Research studies have reported that up to 2.5 percent of children and up to 8.3 percent of adolescents in the United States suffer from depression.

Depression emerging early in life often persists, recurs, and continues into adulthood, and that early onset of depression may predict more severe illness in adult life. Diagnosing and treating children and adolescents with depression is critical to prevent impairment in academic, social , emotional, and behavioral functioning and to allow children to live up to their full potential.

• Persistent sadness.
• An inability to enjoy previously favorite activities.
• Increased activity or irritability.
• Frequent complaints of physical illnesses such as headaches and stomachaches.
• Frequent absences from school or poor performance in school.
• Persistent boredom, low energy or poor concentration.
• A major change in eating and/or sleeping patterns.

When the signs of depression appear, seek help quickly. Consult with your physician, counselor or school nurse for more information.