What is depression in young people?

Depression in children and adolescents is a serious mental health condition that affects mood, behaviour, energy and daily life. It can cause persistent sadness, irritability, social withdrawal and changes in sleep or appetite.

What are the common signs of depression in children and teenagers?

Common signs include persistent sadness, irritability, low self-esteem, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbance, appetite changes, social withdrawal and, in severe cases, self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

What causes depression in young people?

Causes may include traumatic experiences such as bullying or abuse, family breakdown, bereavement, chronic stress, or a family history of mental health problems. Often, several factors combine to increase risk.

How is depression in young people treated?

Treatment may include counselling or talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), school-based support, family support, healthy lifestyle changes and, when needed, antidepressant medication under medical supervision.

When should parents or carers seek help?

Help should be sought if a child shows persistent low mood, withdrawal, changes in behaviour or talks about self-harm or suicide. Parents and carers can speak with a GP, school counsellor or mental health professional, and in emergencies call 999 or a crisis helpline.

Depression in young people

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Update: 18 August 2025

Depression is a significant mental health concern among young people in the UK, affecting their emotional well-being, academic performance, and overall quality of life. With an increasing number of children and adolescents experiencing mental health challenges, it is crucial to understand the symptoms of depression and how to access the support needed to overcome the depression symptoms.

Mind published the results of a survey involving over 500 children who had experienced trauma or mental health concerns. The research identified that young people often turn to school or college to seek help before speaking to anyone else. This emphasises the importance of our campaign ‘Someone to Talk To,’ which aims to be present in as many schools as possible to support children’s mental health. The survey also highlighted that if one child has a negative experience when trying to access mental health support, it can deter others from seeking help. This underscores the imperative for all schools to provide good counselling support for the young people. Furthermore, the survey revealed that one in seven 10–19 year-olds are experiencing mental health issues, with suicide being the third leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-29 years.[1]

A report by the NHS indicates that mental health issues among young people are on the rise. The 2022 Mental Health of Children and Young People in England survey revealed that one in six children aged 5 to 16 years had a probable mental disorder, including anxiety and depression. Things that can increase the risk of a young person getting depression can be a mixture of life events for example bullying, physical, sexual or emotional abuse, bereavement, family break downs, difficult events.[3]

Symptoms of Depression in Children

Identifying depression in young people can be challenging, as symptoms may manifest differently than in adults. Common signs to look out for include:

Persistent Sadness – A young person may appear sad or low for an extended period, often displaying a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed.[3]

Irritability – Increased irritability can manifest, including a disinterest in previously enjoyable activities.

Sleep Disturbances – Insomnia or oversleeping is common in young people with depression. They may have difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. It may also be noticeable that they are feeling more exhausted and are having trouble sleeping.[3]

Changes in Appetite – Depression can lead to significant weight loss or gain due to changes in eating habits. Some may lose their appetite, while others may turn to food for comfort. You may observe changes in a young person’s appetite, whether they are eating less or excessively.[2]

Signs of Depression

You may notice changes in the child’s confidence, with them expressing feelings of worthlessness or numbness. Young people may articulate feelings of guilt or inadequacy, often criticising themselves harshly. They might begin to isolate themselves from family and friends, spending more time on their phones or computers. A noticeable change in social behaviour, such as withdrawing from friends or avoiding activities, can indicate depression.

Additionally, they may start to struggle with behaviour and concentration at school.[2] A child experiencing depression may also resort to self-harm or have suicidal thoughts. This is a critical sign that immediate help is needed.

Recognising the signs and symptoms of depression in young people is essential for early intervention and support. By fostering open communication and encouraging young people to seek help, we can play a vital role in their mental health journey. It is imperative that schools and communities work together to create a supportive environment that prioritises mental well-being.

Accessing Help and Support

If you recognise these symptoms in a young person, it is important to take them seriously and encourage them to seek help. Here are some steps to access support:

Talk Openly to the young person encourage open conversations about feelings. Let them know it is okay to talk about their emotions and that you are there to listen without judgment.

The first step towards getting help is to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a GP. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend treatment options, which may include counselling.

Speak to the young person’s school, many schools have mental health resources available, including counsellors or mental health first aiders. Encourage the young person to speak to a trusted teacher or school counsellor.

Mental Health Organisations like such as Childline (0800 1111), Young Minds 0808 802 5544, Samaritans 116 123 offer confidential support and advice for young people struggling with mental health issues. These services can help young person understand their feelings and provide strategies for coping.

Therapy can provide a safe space for young people to explore their feelings and develop coping strategies. A safe place where they can express their thoughts and feelings with no judgments.

Involve Family and Friends if the young person is open to the support. Family and friends can play a vital role in their recovery, providing understanding and encouragement.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices physical activity, a balanced diet, and good sleep. Regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve mood and overall mental health.

If a young person is in crisis or has thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it’s crucial to seek immediate help. Contact emergency services or a crisis hotline for immediate support.

Conclusion

Depression among young people in the UK is a pressing issue that requires awareness and action. By recognising the symptoms and encouraging open dialogue, we can play a vital role in supporting young people who may be struggling. Accessing help from healthcare professionals, utilising school resources, and involving family and friends can help the recovery process. Remember, it’s essential to take every sign of distress seriously and act promptly to ensure the well-being of our young people. There is a lot of help and support out there, please reach out if you need support.