Most children exhibit changes in their mood as they develop and grow. “Mood swings” are a normal part of childhood. However, if a child displays sadness for weeks at a time, these emotions do not appear to be going away, and they interfere with the child’s ability to function on a daily basis, then it could be a sign of a mental health issue.

Signs and Symptoms of Extreme Sadness and Despair

The signs and symptom list shows the range of ways your child may express extreme sadness and despair.Your child may be extremely sad or in despair if they:

• Cry often or are constantly tearful
• Act hopeless
• Have a decreased interest in activities, especially activities they used to enjoy
• Are often bored and have little energy
• Begin to socially isolate themself and communicate poorly with family and peers
• Show low self-esteem and guilt
• Become extremely sensitive to rejection or failure
• Become more irritable, angry, or hostile
• Have a hard time making and keeping friends
• Complain often of headaches and stomachaches
• Are not doing well at school
• Are often absent from school
• Have difficulty concentrating
• Show a noticeable change in eating or sleeping patterns
• Try to run away from home
• Have thoughts about, talk about, or attempt suicide or other self-injurious behaviors

Possible Mental Health Diagnoses

Possible mental health diagnoses within this symptom cluster include:

• Bipolar disorder
• Depression