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10 Mar Homeless Children and Depression

Posted at 13:10h in Depression by

It might not be surprising that many of the homeless children in the United States also suffer from homeless kidsdepression.  What might be surprising is the actual number of those that are afflicted.

Researchers at Ohio State University have found that more than 50% of homeless kids have depression and, in general, these children have higher rates of mental health problems overall.(1)

Doorways for Women and Families states that mental health issues are hardest hitting in kids between 6 and 17 years old.  These mental issues can include depression, but also might be accompanied by anxiety(2) and attachment disorder.

Caring for and treating these kids can aid them in reshaping the direction of their lives.  While properly treating a child for depression can help them in the short-term, it can also reduce the possibility of drug or alcohol abuse later in life, sometimes used as an attempt to cope.(3)

What are the signs of a child suffering from depression?

  • Frequent emotional outbursts
  • General sadness
  • Mood swings
  • Changes in social behavior; a child who was once outgoing might become withdrawn
  • Lack of energy
  • Degrading talk about him/herself; low self-esteem
  • Eating too much or too little; a significant change in how much he/she eats
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Sleeping more than usual
  • Morbid thought about “ending it all”

A homeless parent might not recognize signs of depression in their child, since they may feel overwhelmed with their own situation and suffer from depression themselves.  It may be that a teacher, coach or guidance counselor is in a better position to recognize the symptoms.

What do you do if you see signs of depression?

Getting a child who exhibits ongoing signs of depression to a pediatrician who can ascertain that there are no physical problems behind the symptoms is the first step.  If no physical concerns are found, the next step is to have the child evaluated by a knowledgeable psychiatrist about the most effective treatments available.

The Institute for Advanced Medical Research provides complimentary screenings for adult and adolescent depression.  Those screened may be eligible for participation in a free clinical trial.  Call 770-817-9200 for more information.

 

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