Watch: Spotting Depression in Kids & Teens
This 4-minute clip covers body language cues, common myths, and how to stay calm when emotions rise. Use the notes below to reinforce learning after watching.
Behavior & Mood Checklist
Use this list while watching the video or after a tough week to capture patterns you’re noticing.
- Persistent sadness, irritability, or hopeless statements
- Loss of interest in friends, sports, art, or gaming they once loved
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy for more than two weeks
- Drop in school performance or concentration
- Complaints of headaches, stomachaches, or vague body pain
- Talking about feeling like a burden or wishing they could disappear
Conversation Prompts from the Video
Curiosity opener
“I’ve noticed you skipping lunch lately. How have you been feeling?”
Validate feelings
“It makes sense that you’re exhausted when your mind is racing.”
Offer partnership
“Would it help if we scheduled a day off together or talked to Ms. Kim?”
Normalize help
“Seeing a therapist is like having a coach—want me to find a few options?”
When It’s Time to Get Help
Call your pediatrician, therapist, or local crisis line immediately if you notice any of the following alongside mood changes:
- Statements about death, disappearing, or being a burden
- Self-harm behaviors or evidence of cutting/burning
- Risky behavior (substance use, sneaking out, unsafe driving) that is new or escalating
- Hallucinations, delusions, or sudden paranoia
In the United States, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you’re outside the U.S., contact your regional emergency number.
Action Plan After Watching
Pause & Observe
Jot down what you notice: timing, triggers, comments, and body cues.
Open the Door
Use calm starters like “I noticed you’ve been quieter. Want to talk about it?”
Partner With School
Touch base with teachers or counselors for additional observations.
Schedule Professional Help
Contact your pediatrician, therapist, or a crisis line if you’re unsure how urgent symptoms are.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if it’s depression and not just normal teen moodiness?
Length and impact matter. When sadness, irritability, or withdrawal last at least two weeks and disrupt sleep, grades, friendships, or self-care, it’s time to check in with a professional.
Should I mention suicide directly?
Yes. Asking “Have you had thoughts about hurting yourself?” does not plant the idea; it shows you can handle the truth and opens the door to safety planning.
What if my child refuses therapy?
Validate their feelings, offer choices (virtual vs. in-person, different therapists), and frame therapy as a tool—like a coach for emotions. In urgent cases, safety overrides resistance.
Can screen time cause depression?
Heavy, unstructured screen time can amplify comparison and isolation, but depression is usually multi-factorial. Balancing sleep, movement, relationships, and purposeful tech use helps.
Key Takeaways
Trust your instincts
You know your child best—if something feels off, follow up.
Ask for help early
Pediatricians, therapists, and school teams can guide next steps.
Stay connected
Consistent, judgment-free check-ins keep the conversation open.
⚠️ Crisis Disclaimer
This article and video are educational tools. They do not replace personalized medical or mental health advice. If your child is in immediate danger, call emergency services, visit the nearest emergency department, or contact your local crisis hotline.