Updated June 08, 2015.

Child Depression and ADD / ADHD

It can be difficult to recognize childhood depression. All children feel sad or low at some point in their lives. Depression, however, occurs when the feelings of sadness persist and interfere with a child’s ability to function.

Children with ADHD may be at higher risk for depression. It is estimated that approximately 10% to 30% of kids with ADHD also have depression.

Depression may result from academic frustrations at school, social isolation due to problems fitting in or being rejected by peers, behavioral problems at home that result in stress, as well as feelings of hopelessness at not being able to control ADHD symptoms.

Additional coexisting conditions such as learning, conduct or anxiety disorders may also increase a child’s risk of depression, as does experiencing loss (death of a family member, parental divorce, etc.) or other significant life stressors. Depression also tends to run in families.

Younger children often have a hard time verbalizing their feelings, so it is important for adults to be aware of some of the signs of depression.

Signs of Depression in Children

A few signs that depression may be occurring in kids include:

• Persistent sadness and tearfulness
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Decreased interest in activities that were previously enjoyed
• Withdrawal from friends
• Low energy and lack of enthusiasm
• Frequent complaints of ailments like stomach or headaches

• Poor concentration
• Significant changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Feelings of guilt and self blame
• Increased irritability, anger or agitation
• Frequent school absences
• Significant deterioration in school performance
• Thoughts or talk of death or suicide

If your child displays these symptoms and you have concerns that he may be struggling with depression, talk with your child’s doctor. Treating the depression will improve your child’s ability to handle the problems that accompany ADHD, just as treating the ADHD will help improve some of the symptoms of depression. Untreated childhood depression often continues into adulthood and may even be a predictor of more severe illnesses in adulthood. Early intervention can help.

Additional Reading:
Symptoms of Childhood Depression
Symptoms of ADD / ADHD
Improve Your Child's Feelings of Self-esteem
Treating the Whole Child

_{Sources:
American Academy of Adolescent Psychiatry. The Depressed Child. May 2008.}

National Alliance of Mental Health. Facts About Childhood Depression: Early Onset-Depression. 2008.

Susan Ashley, PhD. ADD & ADHD Answer Book. Sourcebooks. 2005.