Depression in children and teens isn’t always easy to recognize. It can show up as irritability instead of sadness, withdrawal instead of tears, or loss of interest in play instead of outright despair. At Kreative Minds Health & Wellness, I provide compassionate psychiatric care that looks beyond behavior to understand what your child is really going through and how to support them back to emotional wellness.

As a solo practitioner, I offer a personalized, focused approach. Every child is different, and so is every family. That’s why I begin with a comprehensive evaluation to explore your child’s emotional world, developmental history, medical background, and social environment. Together, we uncover the root of your child’s struggles and create a care plan designed just for them.

Signs of depression in children and teens may include:

• Frequent sadness, tearfulness, or irritability
• Low energy or fatigue
• Lack of interest in school, friends, or hobbies
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness
• Thoughts of self-harm or death
  
  

These symptoms are not “just a phase.” Childhood depression is real and treatable. Whether your child is dealing with Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia), or mood challenges tied to trauma, loss, or stress, I work carefully to match the right interventions to their needs.

Medication can sometimes be part of the solution. If I recommend it, I’ll start conservatively and involve you in every decision. I help you understand what the medication does, how long it takes to work, and what to expect. My goal is to ease the intensity of symptoms never to dull your child’s personality or growth.

But healing isn’t just about medication. I often recommend a combined approach, including:

• Family education and support
• Lifestyle guidance (such as screen time, nutrition, and sleep)
• Referrals to trusted therapists for evidence-based interventions like CBT or play therapy
• Ongoing monitoring and adjustments to treatment as your child grows

What matters most is that your child feels heard, seen, and supported. Depression can make life feel heavy, but it doesn’t have to define your child’s story. At Kreative Minds, I’m here to walk this path with you step by step until hope and joy begin to return.