Depression in Children
2025.10.16
Child Depression
Hello, my name is Tatsuya Arakawa, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
In this blog, I would like to talk about depression in children.
Common Image of What Depression Looks Like.
When most people think of depression, they imagine symptoms such as staying in one’s room or lacking energy. Of course, these are common symptoms of depression. However, in children, depression often presents with different symptoms than those typically seen in adults. Below are some of the most representative ones.
Symptoms of Depression in Children
Defiant Attitude
When children show defiant behaviors, people often underestimate them believing that they are in the “rebellious phase.” As a result, it is often dismissed simply as part of growing up. While defiance can sometimes be a normal developmental stage, there is a possibility it is not. Such behavior may actually stem from depression. Especially when a child’s defiance is excessive, it is important to first consider the possibility of depression.
Irritability and Anger
Similar to defiance, irritability and anger can also be symptoms of depression in children. Naturally, some irritability is normal in childhood. However, when a depressed child exhibits these emotions, they often appear more frequently and with greater intensity than usual. If such behavior is brushed off as “just their personality,” there is a risk of missing signs of depression, which could eventually develop into a severe condition. In such cases, the possibility of depression should not be overlooked.
Thinking About Death, Suicide, or Self-Harm
Although often underestimated, thinking about death can also be a symptom of depression. This may include wondering what happens after death or how one’s death might affect others. While curiosity about such topics can sometimes be developmentally appropriate, it should never be ignored.
When such thoughts progress to thinking about suicide—for example, wondering how to end one’s life or actually planning it—the likelihood of severe depression becomes very high.
Similarly, thoughts or acts of self-harm, though different from suicide, also strongly indicate the presence of serious depression.
In summary, these are some key points about child depression. I hope this information is helpful.
Additionally, you may find it useful to take the diagnostic test linked here.
Tatsuya Arakawa
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, #82425