How Moving Can Trigger Depression in Children

How Moving Can Trigger Depression in Children Depression Childhood Depression Print How Moving Can Trigger Depression in Children By Lauren DiMaria linkedin Lauren DiMaria is a member of the Society of Clinical Research Associates and childhood psychology expert. Learn about our editorial policy Lauren DiMaria Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on February 03, 2020 Depression Overview Types Symptoms Causes & Risk Factors Diagnosis Treatment Coping ADA & Your Rights Depression in Kids Thomas Barwick / Getty Images When it comes to moving, depression in your child may not be a concern that first comes to mind. However, some research shows that moving, especially the transition to a new school, may lead to depressive symptoms in a child. This is, of course, only a possibility. Though research shows a connection between moving and depression in children, that doesnt mean that every child will be impacted by a move in this way. You have to make decisions that are right for you and your family and that might just be making a move. Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to ensure a smooth transition for your child and happy life in your new home. Factors That May Impact Your Child When You Move Sometimes the details of a move are non-negotiable, but if there is some flexibility in your situation, there are a few factors that can make the transition easier for your child. Changing Schools Whenever possible, keep your child at the same school or a school in the same district. Research has found that moving schools can be particularly difficult for children in the elementary and middle school years. If your child has previously fallen behind academically, moving to a more advanced curriculum may overwhelm themâ€"or even cause them to fall further behind. For a child, academic failure can be devastating to self-esteem. Low self-esteem is common among depressed children. Changing schools may have lasting effects on children. Research has found that kids who moved frequently have fewer quality relationships as adults.?? They also tend to have less life satisfaction and lower overall well-being. If Divorce Is the Reason for Your Move If you are moving as the result of a divorce or other family restructuring, you will need to be especially sensitive to your childs needs and feelings. Your child will not only be adjusting to a new home and environment but a new family structure. A move combined with a change in the family could be traumatic for a child and trigger feelings of insecurity, isolation, or anger, which are often seen in depression. Keeping to your childs current routine, as much as possible, may help keep a sense of stability in their life. Keeping Old Friends While it is important for your child to make new friends in their new environment, it is also important for them to maintain old friendships. Allow your child to communicate and see their old friends whenever possible. One study found that children who were introverted were more likely to experience lasting negative effects, possibly because introverted children have a more difficult time forming relationships and moving creates major disruptions in close relationships.?? The more relationships that your child has, the more they will feel supported and confident in their ability to make new friends. A child who has no peers to connect with may begin to withdraw from school and social activities. Mental Health Concerns Children who have had previous mental health concerns, especially depression, are more likely to have another period of depression. Research suggests that moving is a significant life stressor for children.?? Moving schools can be as traumatic as having a parent hospitalized for a serious medical illness. Some children, especially those with a past mental illness, are prone to depression as a result of stress. Be on alert for signs and symptoms and consider speaking with your childs therapist about a care plan before you leave. You may also want to ask for a referral to a new provider in your new town. How to Spot Depression in a Child How Parents Can Be Proactive Joining local groups and reaching out to new people will show your child that they are not alone in starting over. Allow your child to openly talk about their feelings about the move and be sympathetic to their fears. Also, be sure to not to let your own anxiety about the move scare your child. If you know that your move will come with additional stressors, consider starting your child in counseling. This could be especially helpful if theyve experienced past episodes of depression. When It May Be Depression Unfortunately for some children, the stress of a move may trigger symptoms of depression. As such, parents should be aware of the symptoms in children, which may include: Withdrawal from friends and familyUnexplained cryingClinging to a parentFeelings of guiltLoss of interest in things of former interestAcademic declineThoughts or actions of self-harmPersistent unexplained physical complaints (e.g., headaches, stomachaches)Appetite and/or weight changesSleeping problems It is normal for a child to be nervous about a move. They may need more attention and reassurance for the first few weeks of the transition. They may even have a brief disturbance of sleep, which should return to normal without treatment in several days. If you notice any symptoms of depression or new or unexplained behaviors in your child, it is important to consult with your childs physician. A physician can determine a cause and treatment, if appropriate. It is extremely important to identify and treat depression early in children. What Parents Should Know About Childhood Depression