The statistics vary partly because the definition of depression varies. Preschoolers don’t know the word and, with the older kids, the perception may depend on when you talk to them.

Yet 19 million people complain of depression enough to make the clinical medical records. In 2005, 118 million prescriptions for antidepressants were written, twice as many as in 1995, says the Center for Disease Control.

Preschoolers are the fastest growing market for antidepressants. Yet the British Journal of Medicine reported no scientific evidence that antidepressants work for children. For children under 18, Britain has banned all but Prozac which is used for complicated emotional problems.

Of course we all get the “blues” and “feel down in the dumps” from time to time. The solution is usually an increase in physical activity—sports or exercise class—or just a change of scene.

For many of us, especially the children, diet can be a part of the problem. A preschooler at a fifth the body weight of his Mom, can get far too much sugar from a candy bar or an overdose of fat or caffeine from a portion that would have no effect on Dad or Mom.

Mental habits can also influence clinical depression. While adults can take encouragement from long-range plans for summer activities or vacations this fall, children are shortsighted. If homework is due tomorrow morning, it may obscure the prospect of friends coming over tomorrow afternoon or any upcoming weekend fun.

For a child short on long-range thinking, the magic of Harry Potter or becoming the next soccer star should not be discouraged. Such imagination serves a useful antidepressant purpose for a person who has not yet developed the necessary foresight beyond next week.

A review of activities, diet and mental habits may help in understanding symptoms of depression in your child. Michael Conner, psychologist with the Oregon Counseling Organization, lists symptoms of depression such as fatigue and loss of energy nearly every day; bad temper, irritability; fear, tension and anxiety; drop in school performance; repeated physical complaints without medical cause (headaches, stomach aches, aching arm or legs) and changes in appetite or sleeping habits.

Of course all of these behaviors occur in all children, but excessive and continuing amounts of bad habits deserve attention. Conner suggests seeking immediate professional advice for serious symptoms, but most depression is usually temporary. Allow your child space and time. Keep caffeine at absolute zero. Alcohol use by children is never appropriate. Learn more about any medications your child is taking. Discourage meal skipping. Regular meals are a crucial part of your child’s ability to cope. Maintain regular sleep for the same reason.

Take time to be a part of your child’s physical activity. It will help you as well as them, and it will be an opportunity to listen and understand.