Depression

Our kids are truly in a mental health crisis. Depression in kids is more than just occasional sadness. The greatest sign that a kid is struggling is a significant and prolonged change in behavior, involvement or attitude. Kids with depression may complain of physical ailments, such as headaches or stomach aches. They may avoid activities they have previously enjoyed. In this week’s Brite lesson, kids will learn that Jesus’ friends were sad and confused after His death, before they knew He was alive. Kids who are struggling with depression can trust that Jesus is always beside them. If your child says something that leads you to be concerned for their mental health, especially if they hint in any way about harming themselves, seek help from medical and mental health experts.

Here’s how we discussed this topic and how you can discuss it at home: 

 Discuss: What are some things that make kids sad?

Discuss: What is the difference between feeling sad and being depressed?

Discuss: What does God have to say about depression?

Say: Some people struggle with sadness more than others. Depression is when someone is really sad for a long time. This depression could be caused by something really bad that is happening or has happened in the past. Sometimes there is not an explanation for depression, but it is still really hard for the person experiencing it. Psalm 34:18a says: The Lord is near to the brokenhearted. God is near when we are sad or depressed, but the sadness can make it feel like He is far away. We can trust that what God says is true, even when our feelings don’t line up. He loves us. He is with us. He has a plan for us. Depression can cause you to feel stuck, but God can help with that too. If you struggle with sadness, make sure you talk to a loving, caring adult whom you trust. God gives us good people to help when we are struggling.