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Q&A
Why is my child depressed? Depression can be caused by many factors ranging from health, life events, environment, family history or genetics. In gifted children in particular unhealthy perfectionism and emotional maturity can be contributing factors. What is wrong with trying to be perfect? There are 2 types of perfectionism: Normal perfection and neurotic perfectionism. Normal causes a person to strive to do well but realize limitations. Neurotic is derived from an intense fear of failure and feelings of inferiority. Neurotic perfectionism can lead to unnecessary stress and depression. How do I help my child cope with perfectionism? Dr. Dana Silverman of the Gifted Development Center says you need you encourage your child to set priorities so not to get overwhelmed and dont quit when things are hard, or he or she fails at something. Is it common for gifted children to suffer from depression? Research says that depression in gifted students is no more common than in typical students. However, [Gifted students] reactions are more intensely joyful, but also more fearful and depressed. (Davis, Rimm and Siegle) They experience emotions deeper than other children their age. It does not always lead to depression, but it can occur.

What You Can Do.

If your child has experienced any of these symptoms, they may be suffering from depression. This can occur for many different reasons but one thing you must realize is that it is neither yours nor your childs fault. If you are not sure if your child is depressed consider a couple of different questions. How long have the symptoms occurred? How different are your teens actions compared with the way he or she used to be? How severe are the symptoms? If your answers are strong enough to indicate that your child is depressed, your first step is to talk to them. Offer him or her your support and make sure that it is obvious that you are there unconditionally and dont ask a bunch of questions. Teenagers are likely to feel attacked and get defensive so just be there to support them, but if they have something to say, listen. Gifted children often times feel different just for their intelligence so be helpful but dont question them to the point that they are uncomfortable. They need to understand that their feelings are valid without being judged. Along those lines, you should not lecture or downplay what they are going through. Finally, get them help. You can encourage behaviors that can lead them to feel more in control but they must also see a health professional. Depression left untreated can have devastating results so be gentle but persistent. Depression is not a passing sadness. It is a disease but one that affects people from all walks of life.