Depression can Develop in Kids Sooner than Previously Believed, Finds Study

Though the symptoms of mental health conditions in children can mimic that of adults, the
way to express them may be different. The responsibility of identifying the signs and
symptoms of mental disorders in children lies on their parents. However, many adults fail to
identify the symptoms because of lack of awareness about the warning signs.
It will be wrong to suggest that children are not vulnerable to mental illnesses because they
dont face any kind of stress and burden. Unfortunately, children can experience a wide range
of mental disorders that interfere with their daily tasks and relationships with others, such as
anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders
(ASDs), eating disorders, mood disorders and depression.
The early identification
of the symptoms of any
festering mental
illnesses in children not
only helps them in
coping with the
challenges, but also
safeguards them from
witnessing similar
symptoms in future.
Generally, early
exposure to any form
of mental illness often
turns out to be one of
the regular behavioral
patterns.
Consequently, it becomes a major hurdle in the way of effectively treating mental health
conditions.
According to a study, mental illnesses generally begin at the age of 14. However, another
recent study, published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, based on examination of studies
of more than 3.5 million people across 90 countries, suggested that gender differences in both
symptoms and diagnoses of major depression can begin at the age of 12.
Gender gap in depression demands attention
A meta-analysis, conducted by the researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and
co-authored by Janet Hyde and Rachel Salk, looked at the key difference in the diagnosis and
symptoms of major depression, particularly at the age of 12. The study found that depression
was twice as likely to develop in females while only one-third of males experienced this

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mental disorder. In addition, the researchers discovered a significant gender gap at the age
of 12, which is earlier than what has been used in the previous studies.
The higher risk of depression in teenage girls was believed to be the consequence of hormonal
changes that take place during puberty. However, the researchers advocate the fact that
social and environmental factors also play a significant role in the onset of depression.
Teenage girls are more prone to experiencing sexual harassment and issues pertaining to
body and personality that can contribute to the onset of depression during puberty.
Similarly, the researchers also believe that the processes behind the development of
depression begin before the age of 12. Therefore, intervention around this age group can help
prevent depression among adolescents, especially girls. Lastly, the study did not find
significant differences in the gender gap in participants who were young adults or older
adults, thereby indicating that adolescence is a major phase for the development of
depression.
The researchers also investigated the association between depression and gender equity in
income. It was found that countries with lesser differences in income between males and
females witnessed the greater gender differences, i.e. women were more likely to be
diagnosed with major depression. This contradicts the researchers earlier conjecture that
greater gender equity in income would be associated with lesser differences in the gender
gap.
According to the co-author Janet Hyde, a professor of psychology and gender and womens
studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, It may occur because, in more gender-
equitable nations, women have more contact with men, and therefore compare themselves
to men, who dont express feelings of depression because it doesnt fit with the masculine
role.
Depression is an illness, not a weakness
Depression is a treatable mental disorder. Identifying its onset of symptoms at an early age
could help prevent its development, as well as reduce the risk of developing the associated
health problems. Though depression can manifest differently among children, teenagers and
adults, it stems from the similar changes in the brain. Therefore, anyone having symptoms of
depression or any other mental disorder must seek intervention to prevent the aggravation
of the condition.
If you or your loved one is battling the symptoms of depression, it is imperative to seek help.
The Depression Treatment Helpline can help with the information on the best inpatient
depression treatment centers that specialize in delivering evidence-based intervention plans
across the U.S. Call us at our 24/7 helpline number 866-619-7729 to know more about the
comprehensive treatment options around you.

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