ABSTRACT
It is now generally agreed that children can have depression, although it is thought that it may differ to that experienced by adults. This can have implications for many areas of their functioning and their life, but particularly for their involvement in activities at school. The lack of motivation experienced by such children and the pervasiveness of their difficulties can present significant problems. Only with sensitivity to, and understanding of, the nature of this disorder and the underlying feelings involved can teachers encourage children with depression to become re-engaged in school life. If helped effectively, children’s self-esteem can be raised and this can also lead to improvements in other areas of their life.
