Low Mood and Depression
Psychologists | Speech Language Pathologists | Occupational Therapists | Exercise Physiologists | Therapy Assistants
Psychologists | Speech Language Pathologists | Occupational Therapists | Exercise Physiologists | Therapy Assistants |
Understanding low mood and depression in children and teens
It might be surprising to learn that children and young people can experience depression, but low mood and depression can affect people at any age, and the earlier it's identified and supported, the better the outcomes tend to be.
Depression in children doesn't always look the way we might expect. Rather than sadness, it might show up as irritability, withdrawal, loss of interest in things they used to love, or a general flatness that's hard to explain. Children may not have the words to describe how they're feeling, but they may be really struggling on the inside.
At Spectrum Therapy Australia, we take low mood seriously at every level of severity. You don't need to wait until things are very bad before reaching out, earlier support tends to make a real difference.
- Persistent sadness, tearfulness, or a flat, empty emotional tone
- Irritability or increased emotional reactivity
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities they previously enjoyed
- Withdrawal from family, friends, or social activities
- Low energy, fatigue, or appearing 'slowed down'
- Difficulty concentrating or a drop in school performance
- Changes in sleep — sleeping too much or having difficulty sleeping
- Changes in appetite or eating patterns
- Negative self-talk, low self-esteem, or feelings of hopelessness
- In more serious cases: thoughts about self-harm or not wanting to be here
What might low mood or depression look like in children and teens?
What causes low mood and depression in young people?
Common contributing factors include:
- Family history of depression or anxiety
- Experiences of loss, trauma, or significant stress
- Social difficulties, bullying, or loneliness
- Academic pressure or school-related stress
- Co-occurring neurodivergence - Autistic and ADHD young people have higher rates of depression
- Identity-related stress, particularly for gender-diverse and LGBTQIA+ young people
How can psychology help?
- A thorough understanding of what's contributing to your child's low mood
- Building skills for managing difficult emotions and unhelpful thinking patterns
- Gradually rebuilding engagement with enjoyable activities and meaningful connections
- Addressing underlying anxiety, trauma, or self-esteem concerns where relevant
- Parent and family support — low mood in children affects the whole family
- Collaboration with school where low mood is affecting attendance or learning
- Coordination with GPs or other health professionals where needed
For most children, having a safe space to name and explore their feelings is an important part of recovery. Evidence-informed psychological support is designed to meet each child where they are, at their own pace, in a way that feels manageable. Avoiding the conversation rarely makes things easier, and often leaves children feeling more alone with their experience.
Depression is not a choice or a mood that can be resolved through willpower. Like any other health condition, it benefits from proper assessment and support. Encouragement to 'just be happy' can increase shame and make children less likely to ask for help.
"Talking about it will make things worse."
FACT
FACT
Myth
"They just need to cheer up and get on with it."
Myth
Depression can occur at any age, including in young children. In children it may look different to adult depression, presenting as irritability, physical complaints, or behavioural changes rather than obvious sadness — but it's just as real and just as worthy of support.
FACT
"Children don't get depressed."
Myth
Myths and facts about low mood and depression
If low mood has persisted for more than a couple of weeks, is affecting your child's daily life, or you're worried about their wellbeing, trust your instincts and reach out. You don't need to wait until things are very severe. Earlier support consistently produces better outcomes.
When should I seek help for my child's low mood?
Psychological therapy is the recommended first-line approach for depression in children and teens. For moderate to severe depression, medication may be considered alongside therapy. This is a decision best made in consultation with a GP or psychiatrist.
What if my child is having thoughts of self-harm or suicide?
Is medication needed for depression in children?
Please seek support as soon as possible. You can contact us, speak to your GP, or if you're concerned about immediate safety, contact a crisis service like Lifeline (13 11 14) or Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800). You are not alone, and help is available.
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