Shining a Light on Shadows: Understanding Depression and Low Mood in School-Aged Children

A comprehensive guide to recognising, understanding and responding to depression and low mood in children and young people. This blog includes signs, impacts and support strategies.

Highlights:

Understanding Depression and Low Mood in Children and Young People Read more
Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For Read more
The Broader Impact on Learning and Well-Being Read more
Risk Factors: Why Some Children Are More Vulnerable Read more
How to Support a Child Experiencing Depression or Low Mood Read more
Practical Tools and Resources Read more
Final Thoughts Read more
Check Out Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Read more

Understanding Depression and Low Mood in Children and Young People

Low mood and depression among children and young people are increasing concerns for families, educators and professionals across the UK. Post-pandemic recovery, heightened academic pressures, social media exposure and the complex needs of children with SEND have contributed to a surge in emotional and mental health challenges.

Depression is a clinical condition marked by persistent sadness, lack of motivation, low self-worth and a disinterest in previously enjoyable activities. Low mood, while not as severe, can be a warning sign especially when it lingers. Recognising and responding early can make a significant difference in a child's ability to cope and recover.

Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For

Your child or teen does not always exhibit depression in the same way adults do. Emotional struggles may show up in behaviours or physical symptoms.

Key signs include:

Ongoing sadness, hopelessness or tearfulness
Withdrawal from social interactions or family life
Irritability, anger or emotional outbursts
Loss of interest in hobbies, school or social activities
Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
Complaints of physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches
Fatigue, low energy and lack of motivation
Self-critical comments or expressions of worthlessness
Struggles with concentration or memory
School refusal or reluctance to attend (see: EBSA Crisis Guide)

It’s important to consider context and frequency. If you’re noticing several of these signs for more than two weeks, begin having conversations with your child’s school (class teacher or SENCo), visit your GP or seek advice from organisations like Young Mind.

The Broader Impact on Learning and Well-Being

The ripple effects of depression and low mood stretch far beyond a child's internal emotional world. In schools, many children who once engaged eagerly in learning begin to withdraw. Concentration, memory and executive functioning are often compromised, making academic tasks overwhelming and increasingly inaccessible. As children fall behind or lose confidence in their ability to succeed, their engagement in school life may diminish, sometimes completely.

Socially, relationships with peers can become strained. Depressed children may misinterpret social cues, isolate themselves or react with irritability, leading to peer rejection or fractured friendships. Family dynamics also shift. Parents often report feeling as though they are walking on eggshells, unsure how to help. Siblings may feel overlooked or confused by the emotional intensity at home, while the family may experience rising stress and emotional fatigue.

Physical health is not immune either. Poor sleep, changes in eating habits, recurrent headaches and lowered immunity are common physical symptoms associated with persistent low mood. These symptoms not only add to the child’s distress but also reinforce cycles of absence and disconnection.

One of the most concerning outcomes is the growing prevalence of Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA). I receive weekly calls from parents who are desperate, describing how their child is becoming increasingly anxious, tearful and resistant to attending school. Many share stories of peeling their child off them at the school gates, feeling heartbroken as they are forced to send them in, often against their better judgment, while the school fails to acknowledge the emotional toll. Some parents report that what started as anxiety has now developed into full-blown trauma, with symptoms consistent with PTSD.

Despite these realities, parents are frequently met with fixed-penalty notices and threats of legal action rather than compassionate support. Schools may downplay mental health struggles, leaving families feeling unheard and unsupported. This misalignment between home and school can leave children even more distressed.

If this sounds familiar, know that you are not alone. We are preparing a dedicated blog on EBSA, delving deeper into its causes, signs and what parents can do to challenge poor practice and secure the right support. In the meantime, you can access our resource EBSA Crisis Guide for immediate advice and steps to take.

Risk Factors: Why Some Children Are More Vulnerable

Depression and low mood can affect any child but some are more vulnerable due to specific circumstances or characteristics that increase emotional strain.

Children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) often experience difficulties in communication, information processing and sensory regulation. These challenges can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation and being misunderstood. Without the proper support, these children may struggle to articulate their emotions, leading to internalised feelings that can develop into persistent low mood or depression. For a deeper dive into how overlapping needs can intensify vulnerability, read Navigating Complex: Understanding and Supporting with Co-Existing Special Educational Needs.

Neurodivergent children, including those with ADHD or autism, may face challenges with emotional regulation and social interaction. Their experiences of rejection, miscommunication or exclusion, whether in school settings or peer relationships can compound feelings of sadness, inadequacy and anxiety. The mental load of masking or adapting to neurotypical expectations can be exhausting and emotionally draining.

Children exposed to discrimination, whether through racism, ableism or bullying, face an additional layer of emotional stress. When children do not feel accepted for who they are, their self-esteem may plummet and their mental health can suffer. Cultural isolation, microaggressions and exclusionary practices in schools can further amplify these effects.

Additionally, children who serve as young carers or come from homes impacted by domestic conflict, parental mental illness or economic instability often carry emotional burdens beyond their years. These children may suppress their own needs or experience ongoing stress and worry, making them more susceptible to symptoms of depression and chronic low mood.

How to Support a Child Experiencing Depression or Low Mood

Responding with empathy and consistency is key. Here are evidence-based strategies for supporting a child navigating low mood:

Acknowledge their experience: Validate feelings without trying to 'fix' them right away. Listen with empathy.
Monitor patterns: Track changes in mood, sleep, eating and behaviour over time.
Limit screen time, especially social media: Encourage real-world connection and reduce comparison.
Build a predictable routine: Stability and structure help children feel safe.
Encourage physical activity: Movement boosts mood and supports better sleep.
Create opportunities for joy: Even small experiences of fun and pleasure can help counterbalance persistent low mood.
Model emotional regulation: Show how you manage your own stress in healthy ways.
Involve the school early: Collaborate with the SENCo, class teacher or pastoral lead to ensure consistent support across environments.
Access professional support: Speak to a GP, school counsellor, or consider a referral to CAMHS. Therapy, including CBT or play-based interventions, can be transformative.

If your child has an EHCP or is being assessed, ensure emotional well-being is clearly represented in the plan.

Practical Tools and Resources

For parents and carers seeking additional support:

Download our EBSA Crisis Guide for steps on school refusal and support.
Read Navigating the Seas of Social, Emotional and Mental Health for a deeper understanding of SEMH needs and how they manifest.

Explore Navigating Complex: Understanding and Supporting with Co-Existing Special Educational Needs to help you advocate for your child when multiple needs intersect.

Final Thoughts

Low mood and depression are not signs of failure either for you or your child. They are important signals that highlight the need for deeper understanding, targeted support and ongoing care. These emotional challenges do not exist in isolation; they intersect with school environments, family dynamics, social influences and for many, additional diagnoses or unmet needs.

If your child is refusing school, experiencing social withdrawal or showing signs of emotional distress, it’s important to act early. These behaviours are not just phases, they are communication. They are calls for help.

You are not alone. Whether you are navigating EBSA, co-existing SEND diagnoses or the overwhelming impact of low mood on your child’s daily life, there are pathways forward. You can advocate. You can build a support team. You can access resources. And most importantly, you can help your child feel safe, understood and valued again.

If you're unsure what steps to take, consider booking a 1:1 advocacy call to explore school options, mental health referrals or guidance on integrating emotional needs into an EHCP. We also encourage you to download the EBSA Crisis Guide and check out Navigating the Seas of Social, Emotional and Mental Health and Navigating Complex: Understanding and Supporting with Co-Existing Special Educational Needs for further insight and support.

Informed, supported parents are empowered parents and your voice can be the turning point in your child’s journey toward healing, confidence and emotional resilience, neither for you nor your child. They are signals that support, understanding and compassion are needed.

Every child’s emotional world is different. Stay connected. Ask questions. Take your concerns seriously... And never be afraid to reach out for help.

If you're unsure what steps to take, consider booking a 1:1 advocacy call to explore school options, emotional support pathways or EHCP inclusion.

Informed parents are empowered parents and your voice can be the turning point in your child’s journey to emotional healing and strength.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between depression and low mood in children?

Depression is a clinical condition characterized by persistent sadness, lack of motivation and disinterest in previously enjoyable activities. Low mood, while not as severe, can be a warning sign if it lingers. Recognizing and addressing these feelings early can make a significant difference.

What are the common signs of depression or low mood in children?

How does depression impact a child’s learning and well-being?

Why are some children more vulnerable to depression?

How can I support a child experiencing depression or low mood?

What should I do if my child refuses to go to school due to emotional distress?

Are there resources available to help?

What are the next steps if I’m unsure how to help my child?

What is the key message for parents dealing with this?