Watch for Signs of Depression
 

 

Depression is quite common in children who have epilepsy.  It may be a side effect of medication, or be caused by other factors such as stress, major disappointment, or chemical imbalance in the body. The diagnosis itself is incredibly overwhelming for a child! Depression can have a major impact on a child's life.  It's important to be aware of the possibility that the child with a seizure disorder may feel depressed. Teachers, please look for these signs in the classroom and report them to the child's parents:

 

Emotional changes:	The child may exhibit a troubled and unhappy state of mind.  The child may feel worried, guilty, angry, fearful, helpless, lonely, and be quiet or withdrawn.
Intellectual changes:	The child may have trouble concentrating or experience chronic negative thoughts.  Look for a child who was a good student but suddenly receives poor marks.
Physical changes:	The child may complain of headaches or general aches and pains.  He may be unmotivated, and lethargic.  The child may also develop eating problems.
Behavioural changes:	The child may withdraw from others and not want to interact with friends, play or take part in fun activities he or she used to enjoy.  The child may cry easily and display angry or aggressive behaviours.

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Last Modified: 07/17/2006 01:18:21 PM