Can Babies Become Depressed? What’s Going on in Their Heads?

Many of us emulate a baby when we look at it. “How beautiful, what is happening in the world unaware of everything; “No worries, no worries.” we say. But is this really the case?

Also a baby Could he develop an anxiety disorder or become depressed? Experts’ cases bring clarity to this situation!

Even though everything seems to be rosy from babies’ eyes, their inner world may actually be different.

Yes, even though babies do not have many life stories or experiences that will make them feel bad emotions, this It doesn’t mean you won’t experience depression or anxiety. Pediatric Psychologist Christina Fiorvanti explains this situation as follows:

“Although we have the belief that infancy is a worry-free and happy period, in many ways scary and depressing things “They may be feeling it.”

Of course, depression in babies is not as common as in adults, but One in 40 babies has symptoms of depression It is estimated. Still sounds like a lot, right?

So why does a baby get depressed?

Of course, babies are not as prone to developing depression based on their past experiences as we are, but there are certain reasons. For example lack of attention, brain chemistry, environmental factors, genetics, mental health of parents or caregivers Situations like these can cause depression in babies.

In fact, because they learn a lot from their surroundings while developing emotions. A baby with a depressed parent is more likely to develop depression. In addition, children from families that are poor or maltreat their children are also at risk of depression.

We don’t know enough about depression in babies because a baby can’t communicate his or her emotions.

Babies; The only way to understand that they are depressed is because they cannot express their fears, desires, sadness and many other emotions with their language. looking at changes in their behavior says psychologist Patricia A. Farrell.

Symptoms of depression in babies They rarely laugh, they often stare into space, it is difficult to establish social interaction, there is a difference in their normal behavior, they are quiet and calm. We can list as follows. On the other hand, crying does not necessarily indicate depression; in fact, the reason for not crying may even be depression.

So how can we prevent depression in babies?

If symptoms are short-lived, they are probably unrelated to depression, but If it continues, you should consult your doctor and find a treatment method suitable for the baby.

For example parent-infant psychotherapy is one of these methods. In addition, playing games, making physical/spiritual contact, or trying to improve your own mental health if it affects you may also be solutions.

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