Holistic Treatment of Depression in Kids

Having a child struggling with depression can feel overwhelming. While counseling and medication have their place, many parents are discovering the benefits of a more holistic, whole-body approach for supporting their child’s mental health. As such, let’s see how such an approach, including natural and integrative strategies, can support your child in their path to recovery.

What Does Depression Look Like in Children?

In children, depression can be harder to recognize. Your child may be irritable, complain about head aches or stomachaches or start to struggle with school and schoolwork. Sleep problems, withdrawing from activities they previously enjoyed or ongoing sadness and crying may also raise concerns. Recognizing and understanding these potential warning signs can open the door to seeking appropriate help and support.

Nourishing Children’s Body and Mind

Similar to how a garden needs water and fertile soil to grow, a child’s brain needs the proper nutrients to function. Often, simple dietary changes can have a significant impact.

In some cases, improving the diet can make a huge difference. The inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in wild-caught fatty fish, can support brain health and mood. Emphasizing proteins like lean meats, eggs, nuts and seeds can also be helpful. Including fruits and vegetables while minimizing processed foods, like sugary beverages, snack foods, ready-to-eat meals, baked goods and candy, is also important.

It can also be critical to consider nutritional deficiencies that could be contributing more directly to a lower mood for your child. Vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, iron, B vitamins and others are common problems. Evaluating levels of these nutrients with an integrative-medicine-trained health-care provider can help to identify deficits and how to correct them.

Moving the Body, Lifting the Spirit

Being physically active isn’t just about exercise and physical strength. Physical activity is well known to improve mood. To incorporate physical activity, find something that your child enjoys:

• Dancing, either structured classes or simply at home to music
• Martial arts like karate or Taekwondo
• Team sports
• Family bicycle rides or walks in nature
• Yoga stretches or a yoga routine
• Playing outside with friends

Keep in mind that the activity should be fun for the child and not seen as a chore.

The Healing Power of Nature

Being outdoors can change a child’s mood. There is actual science behind the benefits of being outside. Regular time in nature is shown to help reduce levels of stress. Consider:

• Starting a garden
• Exploring local parks and playgrounds
• Hiking local trails and identifying the different plants or animals

Creating Calm at Bedtime

Sleep is also critical for supporting mood and emotional well-being. Consider:

• Establishing a consistent, calming bedtime routine
• Reducing screen time in the evening, especially one hour before bedtime
• Reading a book or listening to calming music before sleep
• Having your child take a warm bath before bedtime

Supporting Your Child’s Emotional World

Every child needs a safe space to express their feelings. You can help through:

• Listening without necessarily trying to fix their problems or concerns
• Validating their emotions and feelings
• Encouraging their emotional expression through art or journaling
• Maintaining open, non-judgmental communication

Working with School and Social Life

It can be important to partner with your child’s teachers and school counselors to ensure that your child feels supported throughout the school day. Encourage positive friendships and teach your child that it’s okay to take breaks when they feel overwhelmed.

Taking Care of Yourself

As a parent, it’s vital to remember that your own well-being matters. You can better support your child if you model positive, healthy behaviors and take care of yourself. Don’t hesitate to seek support from family, friends, or a health-care professional when needed.

Bringing It All Together: The Whole-Body Approach

Every child’s experience of depression is unique. What works for one child may not work for another. It’s important to be patient as you explore different treatments and support. While holistic strategies can be helpful, make sure to work with a health-care provider who understands the benefits of a comprehensive approach.

With patience, love, and the appropriate support, your child can improve and recover. Trust your instincts, keep looking for answers, stay hopeful and take one day at a time.