Dealing with Depression

Written By Behaviour Matters

Depression Treatment and Therapy in Toronto

What is Depression?

Feelings of sadness and loneliness are a normal part of life, however it becomes problematic when these feelings persist and become overwhelming. Depression is a mood disorder characterized by feelings of persistent sadness and hopelessness that interferes with daily functioning. Fortunately, there are many effective virtual and in-person treatments and therapies in Toronto that can help children regain a sense of control in their life and ease the symptoms of depression.

What are Common Symptoms of Depression?

Children with depression may show the following symptoms:

  • Physical symptoms:

    • Headaches

    • Back pain, cramps

    • Digestive problems

  • Persistent sad or “empty” feelings

  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering details

  • Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much

  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness

  • Feelings of hopelessness

  • Loss of energy

  • Loss of interest in daily activities that were once pleasurable

  • Irritability, restlessness

  • Appetite or significant weight changes

  • Suicidal thoughts or attempts

How to Support Children with Depression?

  • For instructions:

    • Teach the child how to make checklists with timelines in order to prioritize tasks and help with time-management

    • Have frequent check-ins to redirect the child’s attention if needed and for emotional checks

  • For social skills:

    • Use role-play to teach the child how to start conversations and respond to others

  • For emotional regulation:

    • Teach the child healthy coping strategies for when they feel overwhelmed (i.e. writing their feelings, drawing)

    • Encourage positive self-talk by creating a list of phrases the child can say when facing common challenges

Depression Support for Families

For individuals and families in Toronto struggling with depression, there are a variety of in-person and virtual treatments that may be beneficial, including:

  • Depression programs and groups for kids

  • Cognitive behavioural therapy

  • Social skills training

  • Behavioural therapy for depression

  • Dialectical behavioural therapy

  • Individual and family therapy

  • Depression parent programs for support

  • Online depression programs

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