Detecting Depression: Identifying the Warning Signs in Children

Depression in children is a topic that requires careful attention and understanding. While it can sometimes be challenging to differentiate between situational sadness and clinical depression, being able to recognize the signs is crucial for providing support and intervention. In this episode of Raising Me, Adrienne speaks with Rebecca Hoffmann, the Director of the Center for Trauma, Resilience, and Innovation at MaineHealth (you may remember the name from the episode "Anxiety Epidemic.") They'll explore how to identify signs of depression in children, distinguish between situational depression and more serious cases, and get expert guidance on what to do if you suspect your child may be struggling with depression. About the guest: Rebecca Hoffmann is the Director of the MaineHealth Center for Trauma, Resilience, and Innovation and is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine. By training, Rebecca is a family therapist and has worked clinically for 25 years with children, families and communities. Rebecca’s primary work is in the fields of trauma, violence, resilience, and wellbeing. She has overseen large federally-funded behavioral health research and service grants that focus on providing care and treatment for children and families that have been exposed to trauma. These programs focus on prevention of childhood exposure to violence, implementation of evidence-based trauma treatment, and fostering professional resiliency. In addition, Rebecca has overseen programs in disaster mental health, and in helping communities heal after trauma. Rebecca has extensive training and practice in the fields of childhood trauma, wellbeing and resilience, community coalition building, and collective healing. She has published numerous articles, book chapters, and other resources in this field. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices