All children experience sadness at some time. Receiving a poor grade on a project, having an argument with a close friend, or getting picked last for kickball at recess can lead children to feel down or rejected. Depression is not the same as occasional sadness. Whereas everyday upset is fleeting, depression sticks with a child for much longer. Children struggling with depression may hold negative or pessimistic views of themselves and the world. They have thoughts about death and dying or stop enjoying previously pleasurable activities.
Your child might be experiencing depression if s/he displays:
- Persistent negative mood which occurs most of the day
- Lack of interest in most activities
- Negative thinking
- Physical symptoms (e.g., significant weight loss or gain, fatigue, low energy)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Social withdraw
If you have concerns about your child’s mood, please call CNC at 
847-272-2484 to schedule an assessment and/or therapy. When depression is not appropriately treated, children are at risk of substance use, self-harm and in serious cases, suicide. Research shows that the combination of medication and behavioral/cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective in reducing the severity and impact of depressive symptoms.