Will my child need medication?

Not necessarily. Many children and teenagers benefit from psychological therapy alone. In some circumstances, medication may be recommended as part of a broader treatment plan. If this becomes relevant, we can work collaboratively with your child’s healthcare team.

How long does depression therapy take?

The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of symptoms, your child’s goals, and their individual circumstances. Some young people notice improvements within a relatively short period, while others may benefit from longer-term support.

Can depression go away on its own?

Some periods of low mood may improve with time, but persistent depression often benefits from professional support. Early intervention may help reduce symptom impact and improve long-term outcomes.

Is depression linked to other mental health conditions?

Yes, children with depression may also experience other mental health struggles, including anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders. There is also some evidence that those with depression are at higher risk of developing certain chronic illnesses.

Do parents attend therapy sessions?

Parental involvement often forms an important part of treatment, particularly for younger children. The level of involvement will depend on your child’s age, needs, and therapeutic goals, and will be discussed with your psychologist.

Depression Psychologist Sydney

Supporting young minds through depression, one step at a time.

When Low Mood Starts Affecting Everyday Life

Every child has difficult days, but when feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness persist for weeks and begin affecting school, friendships, family relationships, or activities they once enjoyed, it may be a sign of depression.

At Aspiring Minds Child Psychology, we work with children, adolescents, and families to better understand the challenges they face and develop practical strategies to support emotional well-being. Through evidence-based emotion coaching and guidance, we aim to help young people understand their emotions, build resilience, and regain confidence in their daily lives.

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What is Depression?

Depression (formally known as Major Depressive Disorder) is a mental health condition that can affect people of all ages, including children and teenagers. It’s characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, low mood, and loss of interest or enjoyment in activities they once enjoyed.

While it’s not uncommon to feel unhappy at times, if these feelings start to interfere with their activities or social life, or they continue for several weeks, they may be experiencing depression.

Many factors may cause children and adolescents to develop depression, including genetics, physical health, experiences of bullying, social disadvantage, and stressful or traumatic events.

Depression Symptoms in Children and Teens

Children and teenagers with depression often have different symptoms from adults, and it’s not uncommon for them to experience difficulties in clearly expressing their feelings.

Psychological symptoms may include:

Feeling sad most of the time
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Negative self-talk and low self-worth

Physical symptoms may include:

Significant fatigue, loss of energy, and loss of motivation
Changes in appetite (such as over- or undereating)
Disturbed sleep patterns (such as over- or undersleeping)
Complaints of stomach pain, headaches, or muscle pain

Behavioural symptoms may include:

Lack of interest or enjoyment in activities they usually enjoy
Avoidance of social situations
Changes in school performance
Poor concentration
More easily upset/agitated
Increased physical behaviours (such as hitting, kicking, or biting)
Tearfulness

In some cases, children and teens may experience intense depressive symptoms that may put them at risk of self-harm. If this is the case, it’s important to seek immediate help from a mental health professional.

Evidence-Based Depression Treatment and Counselling Services

At Aspiring Minds, we use various evidence-based therapeutic approaches in managing depression, recognising that every child is different.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT aims to identify unhelpful thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Young people may learn practical skills to challenge negative thinking patterns, improve low mood, and build confidence.

Behavioural Activation

This technique focuses on gradually reintroducing young people to meaningful activities, positive experiences, and health routines that may improve mood and motivation.

Emotional Regulation Skills

People with depression can struggle to manage overwhelming emotions. Therapy may help develop practical skills to identify, understand, and regulate emotions in healthier ways.

Answering Your Depression FAQs

Why Choose Aspiring Minds?

Comfortable, Welcoming Space

We prioritise creating a safe, welcoming environment where children and teens may feel at ease. Building trust is central to helping young people open up and engage meaningfully in therapy.

Experienced in Child Mental Health

Our team focuses specifically on working with children and teenagers. Your child is supported by psychologists who understand their emotional challenges and developmental stages.

Parent Management Guidance

We keep parents informed and involved in the therapeutic process, ensuring they understand what’s happening in sessions and how they may support their child’s progress.

Is Your Child Feeling Stuck or Sad? Let’s Support Them Together

Depression can make it difficult for children and teenagers to enjoy everyday life, connect with others, and feel confident in themselves. With the right support, however, recovery may be possible.

At Aspiring Minds Child Psychology, our experienced team works with young people and their families to better understand the challenges they face and to develop practical strategies for moving forward. If you’re concerned about your child’s depressed mood, behaviour, or emotional well-being, we want to help.

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