Irritability Over Minor Issues May Not Be Just Adolescence... Pediatric and Adolescent Depression on the Rise

"If Sadness or Irritability Persists for More Than Two Weeks, Consider Consulting a Specialist"

The number of children and adolescents diagnosed with depression has increased by more than 70% over the past five years. Experts warn that pediatric and adolescent depression is often confused with typical adolescent reactions, leaving many at risk of falling through the cracks in treatment.

According to Yonhap News Agency, citing the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service on September 7, the number of children and adolescents with depression rose from 49,983 in 2020 to 86,254 last year, marking a 72.6% increase. This surge is particularly pronounced among children and adolescents, compared to a 32.4% increase in the overall number of depression patients in South Korea during the same period.

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During this period, the number of teenage patients aged 10 to 19 increased by 71.7%, from 48,645 in 2020 (18,012 males and 30,633 females) to 83,520 last year (29,262 males and 54,258 females). The number of patients under the age of 10 also rose by 104.3%, from 1,338 (822 males and 516 females) to 2,734 (1,793 males and 941 females).

Pediatric depression, like adult depression, is mainly characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and a lack of motivation. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as loss of appetite, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. Many children complain about being unable to focus on their studies or lose interest and motivation in activities they previously enjoyed. Unlike adults, children may also exhibit symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or anxiety disorders in conjunction with depression.

Children who are not aware that they are depressed may become irritable or react sensitively to minor issues, which often leads to confusion with typical adolescent behavior.

Mood swings are common and natural during adolescence, but mood changes caused by depression persist and interfere with daily life, making treatment necessary. To distinguish between normal adolescent behavior and pediatric depression, it is most important for parents to pay close attention to changes in their children. Parents should observe whether their child's sadness or irritability lasts for more than two weeks.

Additionally, parents should check if their child has lost interest or no longer finds joy in activities they previously enjoyed, if there are changes in sleep patterns or appetite, or if the child unusually prefers to avoid social interactions.