How do you know if your child’s irritability, tummy aches, or withdrawal from friends might actually be signs of depression in children? In this powerful conversation, mental health professional Susan Ringle joins us to share how depression often looks different in kids than adults—and why parents should trust their instincts when something feels “off.”
You’ll learn how to recognize childhood depression symptoms, what next steps to take if you’re worried, and how to support both your child and yourself through the process.
This episode is a must-listen for parents, caregivers, teachers, and anyone who loves a child struggling with emotions that go deeper than sadness.
Link to Mental Health America self-screening tools: https://screening.mhanational.org/
Primary Topics Covered
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro and technical setup
02:39 Why childhood depression looks different than adult depression
03:55 Symptoms parents might overlook: irritability, tantrums, regression
05:10 Red flags: appetite changes, sleep problems, loss of interest in play
06:52 Why parents are the best experts on their kids’ behavior
08:26 The COAL approach: Curiosity, Observation, Acceptance, Loving Guidance
10:48 COVID-19’s impact on children’s emotional health
12:57 Balancing isolation with safe peer connection
15:18 Where to seek help: pediatricians, school counselors, child therapists
16:55 Why parents need their own support when caring for a depressed child
20:09 Stigma, guilt, and why depression isn’t anyone’s fault
22:32 Why screenings and early intervention matter
26:22 The risks of untreated childhood depression and accidental self-harm
29:30 Suicide prevention and children’s limited understanding of death
31:10 Depression’s impact on school performance and memory
33:15 Final thoughts and trusted resources for families
Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.com
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