阅读理解
Childhood is a happy time, right? Not necessarily. Consider these facts.
Depression(抑郁症) may occur in as many as 1 in 33 children.
Once a child has an episode of depression, he or she has a 50 percent chance of experiencing another episode in the next 5 years.
Suicide(自杀) is the 6th leading cause of death for 5-to-15-year-olds.
If your child experiences 5 or more of these signs or symptoms for at least 2 weeks, he or she may be experiencing depression or mental illness.
Feeling--Does your child demonstrate: Sadness Emptiness Hopelessness Guilt Worthlessness Lack of enjoyment in everyday pleasures | Thinking--Is your child having trouble: Concentrating Making decisions Completing schoolwork Maintaining grades Maintaining friendships |
Physical problems--Does your child complain of Headaches Stomachaches Lack of energy Sleeping problems ( too much or too little) Weight or appetite changes ( gain or loss) | Suicide risk--Does your child talk or think about: Suicide Death Other morbid(生病的) subjects |
Behavior problems--Is your child: Irritable Not wanting to go to school Wanting to be alone most of the time Having difficulty getting along with others Cutting classes or skipping school Dropping out of sports, hobbies or other activities Drinking alcohol or using drugs |
Sometimes, a child who causes problems at school or at home may actually be depressed, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
If you think your child may be depressed, it's important to have your child treated. Discuss your child's problems with his or her doctor. The doctor may suggest a referral to a children's psychologist or psychiatrist.
