Dealing with depression and anxiety

I can't post about learning disabilities and mental health without posting information on what to do.  Here are more tips from Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities.  Of course, if you suspect depression, anxiety or other mental health in your child, student or loved one, please seek professional help.

Rhonda


Dealing with Depression and Anxiety

Ignoring feelings of anxiety and depression can cause the feelings to deepen and ultimately lead to social and academic failure. It’s important to work with a mental health professional to determine the most appropriate combination of strategies for a particular child. For example, reframing negative thoughts can be useful, as can applying effective learning strategies such as taking one’s time, or breaking information into smaller bits.

For more intense situations—when depression and anxiety lead to school and social problems, lack of sleep, changes in appetite or weight, low energy and feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness—medication may play a key role.

Children (and adults) who feel empowered to take positive action to improve and maintain their sense of wellbeing are more likely to act when faced with feelings of anxiety and depression. Working to enhance self-esteem and a sense of mastery in some areas may protect children against anxiety and depression, or help them to meet successfully the inevitable challenges life brings.

Signs of Anxiety		Signs of Depression
Generalized anxiety		Persistent, intense feelings of sadness
Unrelenting, general state of worry and fear		Low mood or lack of interest
Panic attacks		Feeling or acting irritable
Sudden bursts of panic or fear		Feelings of worthlessness
Thoughts of “going crazy” or impending death		Poor concentration
Increased heart rate, sweating, trouble breathing		Sleeping too little or too much
Shaking/trembling, or dizziness		Increase or decrease in appetite or weigh
Stomach or chest pains and nausea		Difficulty making decisions
Phobias		Low energy and/or fatigue
Intense fear that leads to avoidance		Wish to be dead or suicidal thoughts or gesture
		Social withdrawal
		Decline in grades or work productivity