Depression
Persistently feeling sad, empty, hopeless, and/or helpless, so much so that kids often stop joining into family, school, sports or other social events for two weeks or more. It can be a single episode or a reoccurring condition.
Just over 11% of youth, ages 12-17, experienced at least one significant depressive episode in the past year.
It’s sometimes tough to detect depression as teens and pre-teens can be moody and blue as part of the normal process of maturing. Consider the depth and duration of their sadness. Notice if they start skipping even previously favorite activities.