Is it possible for an 12 year old to be depressed?

[Raindrops142]

Whilst I have always attributed my only dd's behaviour as just irratiable and moody I have become increasingly concerned. Behaviours that concern me are:

-She never talks to me about school or friends or emotions I only ever hear "I'm fine " I feel like I have been completely shut out

• has refused to go to and quit all numerous activities and clubs she attended.
• frequently missing school or I am being phoned to come pick her up due to stomach aches and sickness
• stopped eating breakfast
• crying constantly (will not let me near to comfort)

I looked at my child the other day and realised she just looks thinner, frail and pale and not like my happy child I used to have.

Is this just early teenage angst? I'm considering taking her to the Doctors's but I don't want to take her for no reason as she will not respond well to my interfering.

Hi

Can't say if your DD is depressed but Yes, you can be depressed at 12, my DD has just been diagnosed with depression and anxiety and she turned 13 in January.

Does DD tell you why she is 'crying all the time'? With mine I know the reason so it was not hard to get her help - though it takes time because GP will probably say you need to have been feeling like it for some time.

If you need some advice I can recommend 'Young
Minds' ( sorry can't link but google it) - they have loads of info on their site, they can send you more, and you can book a half hour chat with them for impartial advice - if they think your DD needs more help they will point you in the right direction. don't bother with their forum it doesn't get much traffic.

If she has lost weight there may be a (hopefully minor) physical cause, so you can take her to GP for blood tests any way. Be prepared for GP to blame her age - but you know your daughter best.

Hope you can get a happier DD back soon

Here's the link

www.youngminds.org.uk/for_parents/worried_about_your_child

that doesn't sound good. How difficult for you. If she crying constantly, something must be wrong

if she is crying...

Is she doing well at school, what did the teacher say at your last meeting?

My ds was diagnosed with anxiety and depression when he was 6 so yes it is possible.

In your case it could be hormones or similar teenage stuff though.

I definitely think it warrants some interference and a visit to the doctor though.

She may not like it now but she may well thank you in the future.