Anxiety and Depression

What are symptoms of anxiety and depression?

Anxiety and depression can affect people of all ages, including children. Some anxiety and depressive disorders develop in childhood. While everyone experiences anxiety and periods of sadness, anxiety and depressive disorders are persistent, excessive, and cause distress or impairment in everyday functioning. Here are some common symptoms of anxiety and depression in children, adolescents, and young adults:

Common Anxiety Symptoms:

• Excessive worry or fear about everyday activities or events
• Refusal to attend school or social events
• Physical symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches, or nausea
• Avoidance of social situations
• Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of restlessness
• Irritability

Common Depression Symptoms:

• Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
• Irritability
• Loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Low self-esteem
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

How are mood disorders such as anxiety and depression diagnosed?

Anxiety and depression are diagnosed through:

• Parent interview
• Interview with the child
• Interviews with teachers and other adults who work closely with the student
• Social-emotional functioning rating scales given to  parents and teachers
• Observations made by the examiner