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Depression in Children
Depression can occur in people of all ages. It is defined as a low mood that is marked with apathy, sadness and an aversion to things that ordinarily bring joy to the affected person. Learning to identify the signs and symptoms of depression is the first step towards seeking a diagnosis and eventually treatment aimed at recovery.
Can Kids Suffer from Depression?
Yes. It is a misconception that children are not prone to depression simply because of their age. In fact, depression among children is more common than you think. It was only after 1980 that depression was included in the list of childhood diseases.
Types of Depression in Kids
Depression can range from moderate to severe and is characterized by certain specific symptoms. If your child has been suffering from five or more of the associated symptoms for at least two weeks, then it is likely to be major or severe depression.
Dysthymia is a category of depression where symptoms are milder, but the condition tends to be chronic and persistent.
Seasonal affective disorder is depression that has to do with exposure to natural light. It surfaces in winters when the hours of daylight are fewer.
Bipolar depression wherein your child is likely to go through an emotional rollercoaster of up and downs is yet another type found in kids though less frequently.
Adjustment disorder is diagnosed when depression occurs after an event that has been upsetting to the child such as the death of a close one.
Causes of Childhood Depression
It is not possible to pinpoint one particular cause of depression in children. A combination of factors such as physical health, family history of depression or mental illness, genetic vulnerabilities, the environment they live in, and biochemical imbalances are usually responsible for depression in children.
Scientists believe that depression is brought on by changes in brain chemistry especially the neurotransmitters that are responsible for sending messages between nerve cells. Traumatic life events such as abuse, being bullied, the death of a parent or divorce can all act as triggers.
Girls are thought to be more vulnerable to childhood depression than boys mainly due to biological differences and their interpretation of events and response to these as opposed to boys. The following are certain psychological factors that might have led to depression:
Low self-esteem
Too much self-criticism
Having a negative body image
Clinical anxiety
Cognitive or learning disabilities
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Trouble with social interaction
Children with little to no physical activity and those who perform poorly at school are also at risk of going into a depression.
Signs & Symptoms of Depression in Children
The symptoms of clinical depression can last for weeks, months, and years if it is left untreated. This can have a bad impact on your child’s daily life including activities at school and even simple activities like getting out of bed after waking each morning. Besides being moody and irritable, if your child shows five or more of the following symptoms, then it is likely that they are depressed and need help:
Being sad and tearful often
Feeling irritated and rebellious
Anger and temper tantrums
Frequent changes in mood
Lack of concentration
Doing badly in school
Feeling guilty
Low self-esteem
Keeps complaining about headaches stomachaches, or other physical discomforts
Overcome by feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
Changes in appetite
Fluctuations in weight
Distances self from social interactions and prefers to be alone
No longer interested in things that were once enjoyable
Problems with sleep
Expressing thoughts about inflicting harm on themselves
Engaging in reckless or harmful behaviour
With children, it can be difficult to identify depression with accuracy and based solely on these symptoms. But if your child has been displaying some of these symptoms for more than a few weeks, then it is best to consult a doctor. Depressed children are also likely to have other difficulties also such as eating disorders, conduct disorders, or problems with substance abuse.
How is Depression Diagnosed in Kids
If your child has been showing some of the symptoms associated with depression for more than a couple of weeks, you should take him or her to a doctor for consultation. You may be referred to a mental health professional who can accurately diagnose your child’s depression through a series of evaluations.
As part of the evaluation, the physician might want to speak with you as well as your child and any other caregivers including your partner. Information might be sought from teachers, classmates, and friends to pinpoint a pattern of behaviour. Questionnaires may be given to you and your child and the physician will have to rely on this type of analysis as there is no specific child depression test as such that can provide a definitive diagnosis.
Since depression is associated with quite a few other disorders such as autism-spectrum issues, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety disorders, the evaluations will also screen for these. Your child’s medical history will also be analyzed as childhood depression can be the side-effect of some types of medications.
What are the Complications?
If your child has depression, it can put them at a risk for many mental health issues in the long run. Childhood depression can result in poor academic performance as well as problems with alcohol or drug abuse. As adults, such children might be unable to hold a job for long and face difficulties in adjusting to life as part of a family. '
It is also possible that some depressed children might harbour suicidal thoughts and as a parent, it is important for you to be aware of warning signs of this. Flags for suicidal behaviour include talk of suicide or death and dying, focusing on the morbid, giving away of their possessions, and increase in risk-taking.
Treatment for Childhood Depression
The treatment for childhood depression is similar to that followed for adults suffering from depression. Psychotherapy and medication are used individually or in combination as part of the treatment process depending on the severity of the condition. Mild to moderate childhood depression is often treatable with psychotherapy alone.
If that does not suffice, then anti-depressants may be prescribed in addition to the therapy. This is usually required in severe cases of depression. Anti-depressants are useful in rectifying the chemical imbalance and can take up to a few months to prove effective. Pinpointing the right medication and the dose can also take time. Also, medication alone will not cure the problem and has to be accompanied by therapy.
You are also likely to come across plenty of alternative treatments such as herbal remedies and supplements that are easily available. However, the veracity of these has not been proven and some might even be detrimental to your child’s overall well-being.
Can Depression in Kids Be Prevented?
Yes, to a certain extent childhood depression can be prevented. For this, it is important that children are brought up in a nurturing environment which fosters a healthy attachment between the child and parents. Being attentive about your child’s needs, providing them love and care, and encouraging gradual independence can all make a difference. When your child is surrounded by supportive adults, has a strong family, maintains a healthy relationship with peers, develops good coping skills, and is emotionally regulated, there is no place for depression.
How to Find a Good Therapist
Your child’s doctor will be able to provide you with some references when seeking a therapist. Besides this, you can ask friends and family or other health providers. Checking their affiliations and researching about the reputation of the therapists on your list can prove helpful in narrowing down your choices. If your insurance provides coverage for the treatment, then you might have to factor in that as well and look for an approved therapist. If your child has been diagnosed with another mental health problem associated with the depression such as an eating disorder, you will need to look for a professional who specializes in that also. It is also important for your child to build a rapport with the therapist. So, the best thing is to opt for a trial session with a couple of the shortlisted professionals and see which one your child feels most comfortable with. Here are some points to tick off your list at the initial meeting with the therapist:
Professional qualifications, certifications, and experience in the field
Types of treatment likely to be suggested
How long the treatment might take
Cost involved and mode of payment
The recommended involvement of parents in the therapy
Expertise in dealing with any associated mental health problems your child may have been diagnosed with
What the usual outcome is likely to be
Helping Your Depressed Child
Dealing with depressed children can be stressful and requires a great deal of time and effort. The first step is to speak to your child about their feelings and moods while conveying to them that you are on hand whenever your child wants to talk. Lend an ear, be supportive, and demonstrate your love as much as possible without going overboard.
Here are some other things you can do to help your child through this difficult time:
Ensure your child has a nutritious diet and gets adequate sleep and rest each day along with a moderate amount of physical activity.
Be patient and kind even when your child throws a temper tantrum, acts grumpy or pushes you away. Mind your words and circumvent arguments whenever possible.
Eliminate events and situations that stress out your child as much as possible.
Encourage your child to take up interest or hobby and be diligent about pursuing it.
Make sure that your child takes any prescribed medication on time and arm yourself with knowledge about possible side-effects and ways of handling them.
Follow the suggestions and advice offered by your child’s therapist as this can help speed up the recovery process.
Depression can have a profound impact on all spheres of your child’s life and prevent them from making the most of available opportunities. Offering your support and taking time out to be with your child is integral to the recovery process.
This information is just a guide and not a substitute for medical advice from a qualified professional.
Also Read: Obesity in Children Read more
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9 Things You Should Always Do After 'Getting Intimate' for Good Health
Getting cosy under the sheets may be all fun and games, up until you contract a UTI or suffer inexplicable pain during or after intercourse! Now, now, we’re not saying that this will happen every time you have sex. But as it happens, taking precautions for healthy and safe sex is not something that should be done only prior to the activity. There are a couple of things you shouldn’t forget to do even after you’ve had your fun!
9 Things You Shouldn’t Forget to Do After Having Sex
Health is often considered to be in physical terms only, but that’s not the case. Sex, as much as being a physical exercise, is very much a mental activity too. This means that it affects both your physical and mental health. So while you’re sure to follow the hygiene tips below from here onwards (if you’re not already doing them), make sure you also take the effort to ensure that you and your partner benefit mentally from your sexual relationship.
1. Make a trip to the bathroom.
This doesn’t mean you need to rush to pee as soon as you and your partner have had your moment! Sit back and relax for a bit but ensure that you do make the effort to get off the bed and flush out the bacteria that would have entered your urethra during intercourse. Once you’re done, wipe from front to back to avoid germs from travelling back to the urethra. Peeing after sex is especially important for women, since the risk of contracting urinary tract infections is so much higher for them. But hey, there’s no harm in men doing the same either!
2. Wash up well.
Your cleansing routine need not be filled with exquisite-smelling products and a super-hot shower - in fact, the simpler you keep it, the better for your private parts. It’s best to wash the area around (and only around!) your genitals with warm water. Keep the fragrant soap and the myriad of genital wash products you may have aside; warm water will work just fine, while other products will alter the good bacteria and flora in your vagina. It’s important that women do not douche, i.e., clean inside their vagina with products or even water, because it can actually lead to more infections. Men with foreskin need to gently pull it back and wash with warm water as well.
3. Avoid hot water for cleaning up.
While the fact that boiling water kills germs holds true for other purposes, the same logic doesn’t apply in this case. In fact, exposing your genitals (especially the vagina) to super-hot water right after sex can make it more prone to contracting infections, because the skin’s antimicrobial barrier gets compromised. Therefore, nice and warm does the trick!
4. Wash your hands.
We know that’s something you never forget to do after visiting the washroom, but it needs to be mentioned because it should be an important part of your post-sex routine. During sex, germs from your partner’s body, especially the genitals, may have gotten transferred to your hands. Leave them ignored and you’re setting yourself up for unwelcome infections. Why take the chance? Simply wash your hands with antibacterial soap and water so that you can go back to bed in peace!
5. Get a drink of water.
Yes, hydration counts here as well! Sex counts as exercise, so drinking a cup of water doesn’t only help replenish your strength, but also contributes to flushing out bacteria that may still be around in your urethra. If you think you’re going to be too tired to go to the kitchen to get a cup of water, keep a bottle filled and ready on your nightstand so you don’t miss out on this step.
6. Wearing loose clothing.
Your private parts are bound to be slightly sensitive and prone to moisture after sex, so covering it up with tight undies made of non-breathable fabric would be a little cruel! Also, bacteria thrive in warm, sweaty areas, i.e. what your genitals will be like when caged in tight underwear. Instead, choose breathable cotton underwear which will not just be comfortable but also absorb moisture. You can also actually do the best thing, which would be to skip underwear altogether - no better time to go ‘commando’, really (well, except during sex, of course!)!
7. Keep those phones and devices away for a while.
Don’t come back to bed from the bathroom and immediately open WhatsApp to watch some video that has been forwarded to you. The moments right after sex call for some intimacy. Dopamine and oxytocin (better referred to as the ‘feel good’ and ‘bonding’ hormones) are released during sex in a good quantity. They make the post-coital cuddle session much more relaxing and promote a lot of love between you and your partner. So instead of staring at the phone or rolling over to sleep off, take the time to stare at each others’ faces and have a nice conversation. Compliment each other, giggle to your heart’s content, hold each other tight - that feeling of closeness is something you’ll cherish!
8. Touch upon ‘touchy’ subjects in your conversation.
Most people avoid ‘the conversation’, which is addressing something that they don’t like about sex or actually want, or even ignoring excessive pain thinking that it’s normal. By doing so, not only are you cheating yourself out of having a wonderful experience but you’re also not doing justice to your partner who’s trying to satisfy you. Be honest right from the beginning about your wants and concerns; it helps to bypass any awkwardness in the future. As for any unusual pain that you may notice, doing breathing or Kegel exercises regularly can help calm cramps or minor pain. But if it’s getting to be too much and too regular, it’s best to seek medical attention.
9. Pay attention to symptoms of yeast infections.
Both you and your partner can be prone to contracting yeast infections due to causes such as wearing the wrong kind of underwear, not practising basic hygiene, staying in sweaty clothes and so on. If you find that there is some itching, redness, pain, swelling, rashes or discharge from your private parts, it’s best to get it treated at the earliest. While yeast infections don’t really cause permanent damage, it can’t be very comfortable going about your day with an itch in your pants, can it?
Take Extra Care During Pregnancy
While it’s important to do the above things every time you have sex, being pregnant calls for more caution. Sex during pregnancy is not unsafe, but the chances of contracting infections are certainly higher. Ensure that hygiene and health are given as much priority as having a good time!
Now that you’re well-equipped with what needs to be done after having a cosy session with your partner, you’ll see that the good effects of having sex don’t just stop with the activity itself. A little extra effort goes a long way!
Also Read:
Is it Safe to Have Sex During Your Period?
How to Boost Your Sexual Confidence
Sexual Performance Anxiety: Causes and Treatments Read more
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How to Make a Toddler-Friendly Living Room
The living room is usually where your baby learns to crawl and take his first steps. Thus, keeping your living room toddler-friendly is imperative. Some stellar decorating ideas for a kid-friendly room can hold you in good stead.
The growing up of your little one calls for a reassessment and reshuffle of your home decor. You don’t want anything untoward happening to your toddler, the active packet of energy that he is!
Tips to Create a Kid-Friendly Family Room
1. Get a Baby Playpen
Playpens provide enough room for your baby to crawl about while keeping him safe within its confines. The holes in the fencing make it easy for your little one to hold onto the edges with his fingers when trying to stand up. The best part is that you can go about your work without having to constantly keep an eye on your baby's antics!
2. Use Natural Fibre Rugs
Carpets and rugs made from natural fibres are the best options for your family room when you’ve got a toddler wanting to explore every nook and cranny of the home. These rugs are soft to the touch and give that extra protection to your child's knees and hands. Rugs of seagrass and sisal are highly durable and can be easily cleaned without leaving watermarks.
3. Throw in Some Fabric Toy Baskets
Storage bins and baskets come in handy when you’re looking for kid-friendly family room design ideas. The soft texture of fabric bins and baskets make them safe around toddlers. It's also easy to put the toys back when playtime is over. These baskets look pretty and add colour and depth to a room. Double whammy, we think.
4. Take out those Empty Jars and Bottles
One of the coolest design ideas is a crayon jar or two made from empty bottles. Take all those loose crayons and colour pencils and stack them neatly in your empty jam bottles. Teach your kids to do the same when they are done colouring and then place them on your bookshelf or mantel as a showpiece.
5. Put an Ottoman for a Centre Table
Of all the dangers lurking around your room, children are most likely to get knocked or bumped against the coffee or centre table. Opt for an ottoman instead of the traditional rectangular table to prevent such close run-ins. The soft cushioning of an upholstered ottoman will ensure your heart doesn’t skip a beat every time your child falls!
Ensure that your toddler remains safe and sound while decorating the room. Go on a kid-friendly home renovation spree and put an end to worrying about your munchkin getting hurt. Read more
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Major challanges in homeschooling and how to deal with them
With schools being shut , the major question in the minds of parents is-What about the education this year? Although most of the schools have come up with online classes but still most of the students are finding it difficult to get full out of these classes.While most of them have settled to the New Normal , many of them are srtuggling to reap the full benefit of the classes. The most hadly hit group is probably of preschoolers and primary level students who finds it difficult to pay full attention in the class. keeping all this mind , many of the parents have started homeschooling w, which in these tough times ssems to be a good way to engage the kids and establish the bonds with them. As a teacher the question which I am asked the most is- How to start homeschooling without any prior experience? Well homeschooling is easier said than done, but small small points if kept in mind can easily help in easying the task to a great extent. So here are some points which you should keep in mind before homeschooling your child.1. RESEARCH ABOUT THE CURRICULUM- In today's world there are plenty of option available in front of parents when it comes to curriculum. Do a through research well before starting teaching so that your journey becomes clear and easy. The type of curriculum should depend on the board which you will want to follow once everything falls in place. For preschooler its better to blend as per the need of the child so as to get the maximum output. 2. MAINTIAN A MONTHLY AND YEARLY CALENDER- Once you have decided on the curriculum , divide it into the year specifying which topic you would teach in a particular month. Similarly plan your month in advance , so that you are clear about the facts that you have to teach and the activities you have to carry out that particular month. Once you have done it, you will find it easier to go on teaching.3. STICK TO A TIMETABLE- Probably hte most important of all. Maintain a daiy timetable for your child mentioning his /her study time and play time. In the absence of school , kids find it easier to escape study. Make it a point to resemble it to a schools timtable i.e study in morning hours and play in the evenings. By this way even you as a parent will know when you have to stop your household work and start the school for the kid. Set a break time, lunch time and activity time in the timetable. Believe me this is going to set the rhythm of homeschooling.4. DONOT FEAR TO EXPERIMENT- Remember the child is with you for the whole day. Make his learning fun by introducing out of curriculum subjects like gardening, cooking etc to keep you child engaged. Don't rely completely in book and paper to teach things . Have some funfilled activities to break the monotony of regular calss. Let the child understand that education is not only about pen and , paper and books.5. DONOT PILE UP MATERIALS- Most of the homeschooling parents spend lot of money in buying the stuffs needed for activities. Most of them end buying materials that they would not even use for the year. try to purchase the things that can do multitasking and use as afr as possible easily available things so as to create a feeling of resourcefulness in your child.6. DONOT EVER GIVE UP- This is the golden rule. Most of you would be new to teaching ,so its easy to loose temper at the slightest mood change of child. Remember your child has till now seen you as a loving parent only, you need to switch to the role of teacher to make learning possible. Give your child some time to accept you in that role. Today or tomorrow , it will come for sure. Be patient. Keep on doing your work with your full heart. Make a bond with your child by paying attention to his needs and desires. Once that bond is established you will find that teaching your child is such a fullfilling task.These are some of the tips taht can help you start homeschooling. Hope these would help you to to homeschooling in a better way. Just feel free to ask any questions related to homeschooling or education of your child. Read more
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Mom of a Newborn child
2 hours ago
Q. Hey, My baby is 25 days old and acne is appearing on his face. is it normal?
What should I apply on the face and what should I avoid?
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. hi
as such no need of any kind of treatment
because such acne are common and they alright by own
but Yes if your child is feeling discomfort, irritation, itching, redness etc please visit your pediatrician
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. Wht and how much should we start soild for baby
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. to start the quantity must be small semisolid are liquid and gradually increase. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. My baby has not poop in a day . Is it normal?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. Stool pattern of small children changes from time to time.
It can be more than 7 times per day also and sometimes the child will not pass stool for 10 days also.
The most important thing is the consistencyf of the stool and if it is Semi solid to solid or semi liquid then there is no need to worry about the frequency as well as colour as well as the smell of the stool
Also straining and crying while passing furine and stool is very normal.
the crying of the child is due to colic pain and not due to constipation
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
1 hour ago
Q. I am 35weeks pregnant My cervix has opened completely
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
34 mins ago
A. please see the doctor for further management. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Nikitha has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
1 hour ago
Q. I am 35 weeks pregnant my cervix has open and I am on complete bed rest
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
58 mins ago
A. hello since you are expecting mother it would be go better to go as advised by your gynecologist so it would be better to have a frequent check with your doctor and go accordingly which is better and also safe and nothing to worry about
Nikitha has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
46 mins ago
Q. how can i increase my breastmilk supply?
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
45 mins ago
A. hello taking lactation medicine can help to increase the milk secretion and alternatively if still it is not sufficient you can alternatively give infant formula milk stage 1 using a bpa free bottle like babyhug and after the baby complete 6 months you can start with stage two infant formula milk
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