Depression Signs by Age Chart

Depression Signs by Age: Quick Reference Chart for Parents

Age Group	Common Emotional Signs	Common Behavioral Signs	Common Physical Signs
Preschool (3–5 years)	Persistent sadness, frequent crying, irritability, frequent anger	Temper tantrums, clinginess, withdrawal from play	Changes in sleep, appetite, frequent stomachaches or headaches
School-Aged (6–12 years)	Sadness, guilt, low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness	Decline in school performance, irritability, social withdrawal, loss of interest in hobbies	Fatigue, sleep or appetite changes, somatic complaints (stomachaches, headaches)
Adolescents (13–18 years)	Persistent sadness, hopelessness, emptiness, guilt, low self-worth	Social withdrawal, declining academic performance, risk-taking behaviors, irritability, substance use	Changes in sleep (insomnia or oversleeping), appetite changes, fatigue, unexplained aches or pains

Notes for Parents:

• Emotional signs refer to changes in mood, feelings, or thought patterns.

• Behavioral signs include changes in social engagement, school performance, and daily routines.

• Physical signs are bodily complaints without medical explanation, often indicating emotional distress.

Red Flags for Depression Requiring Immediate Attention:

• Talk of self-harm or suicide

• Extreme withdrawal from family or friends

• Sudden personality or behavior changes

• Reckless or risky behavior

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