able to tell you what’s wrong. They may become more isolated and less social with their peers.
BlackDoctor: What factors lead to childhood depression?
Dr. Swiner: Genetics, hormonal changes, emotional trauma, abuse or increased stress are factors that contribute to childhood depression.
Dr. Powell: Childhood depression can stem from stressors at home or school. It can also be caused by unhealthy interpersonal relationships or it can be a chemical imbalance in the brain.
BlackDoctor: How can you support your child through depression?
Dr. Swiner: Open communication, counseling, and therapy. Last resort would be medications, natural and pharmaceutical, with the help of physicians.
Dr. Powell: You can support your child with depression by not attempting to fix it on your own. Don’t shame them because of how they feel or tell them to snap out of it. Take them to talk to a licensed mental health professional and be open to different treatment options.
BlackDoctor: Is medicine always necessary?
Dr. Swiner: As a last resort and with the help of a physician, possibly.
Dr. Powell: Medication isn’t always necessary. However, in cases where there’s no identified stressor or trigger, medication can help with the chemical imbalance in the brain. Medication can also be helpful if there is a dramatic decrease in functioning—like if your child is not sleeping or eating and has started to self-harm.
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