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The symptoms may manifest in a number of ways, so
don't expect classic withdrawal to be the only tell tale sign. There may be
outbursts, shouting, unexplained irritability or crying. Children and
adolescents who are depressed, often show extreme sensitivity to rejection or
school failure, even if others in their peer group have failed. Change in school
performance (negative) and frequent absences from school or class may also be
symptoms. Initiating or increasing drug or alcohol use are also symptoms of
concern. Now before you become overly concerned about things you've seen on this
symptom list, be aware that the presence of one or two symptoms does not mean
your child is clinically depressed. But a pattern showing many of these
characteristics could be worth investigating with a mental health professional.
Depression is treatable just like diabetes or
arthritis. The earlier the treatment is started, the better the outcome for
stability and a normal life. A complete treatment plan could involve
psychotherapy (talk therapy) and psychiatric medication. As the individual
improves, medication may be reduced. Many African American parents are negative
towards the issue of medication. Some have had bad experiences when dosage was
not carefully monitored and side effects were severe. In some cases medication
may not be needed. But where symptoms have become severe, such as children who
have suicidal ideas, or can no longer function normally, it could be just as
dangerous to refuse anti-depressive medication as it would be to refuse insulin
for a diabetic child. Every parent needs to collaborate with their psychiatrist
on this issue and give frequent feedback on how your child reacts to the
medication. Abruptly stopping medication without checking with a doctor is not a
solution. Always look for a doctor who is receptive to your questions and
doesn't mind phone calls to receive feedback on the effects of medication.
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