Many of the symptoms of depression involve a deviation from normal behaviour, so it is important that you become the world expert on your child to watch for changes that may indicate the onset of depression.

Symptoms of depression include:

• frequent tiredness,
• pervasive boredom (especially in younger children),
• low mood,
• sudden school failure after good academic performance
• Emergence of new conflicts with parents/siblings
• social withdrawal,
• sleep problems,
• suicidal thoughts or comments,
• over-eating (especially in young women),
• substance abuse.

More information and help can be obtained from beyondblue by phone at 1300 22 4636 or online at www.beyondblue.org.au, or from your GP or other health care professional.

Source: Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, Generation Next Adelaide, 2009. Editor Dr Ramesh Manocha.