CHILD DEPRESSION

I HAVE A HISTORY OF DEPRESSION IN MY FAMILY ON MY MOTHER'S SIDE.  I ALSO HAVE DEPRESSION.  I WANT TO KNOW IF THERE ARE ANY STEPS I CAN TAKE TO PREVENT MY 4 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER FROM BECOMING DEPRESSED. I REALLY WANT TO PREVENT THIS FROM HAPPENING.  IT IS A GREAT CONCERN OF MINE.  THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR HELP AND INPUT ON THIS MATTER.  STEPH

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Steph,

The reality is that your daughter is vulnerable to displaying a depressive disorder, due to the family history. However, this is by no means a guarantee that she will develop such a disorder. The condition has its roots in the chemistry of the brain, so there's nothing you can do about that. All you can do is be the best parent you can be - that's all that is reasonable. Even if your daughter does display some depression, there's no reason to think she won't have a very good life.

[Asim Kayani]

I have a quiery regarding my sister, who is 14 years of age. Her behaviour pattern has recently changed. She does not sleep properly and has become very petty and fights alot. My parents have taken her to the doctor last week and he has prescibed her medication and has analysed her and has told us that she is suffering from depression. One minute she will be fine and the next minute she wont. Since her medication there is a marked difference in her but not a total improvement. She does not eat properly. ITs effecting everyone ni the family greatly. IS it something that can be solved in coming months?

Yours concerningly

Asim Kayani

[Staci Alcala]

I have a history of depression on my mothers side. I would like to know how I can find out if i have depression.