by Perlea, Victor ¹, Mayer, Gwendolyn ¹

• ¹ Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg

The introduction and overview can be found here

Disclaimer:We have compiled this information to the best of our knowledge based on current scientific literature (as of May 2026). However, we do not provide diagnosis or treatment recommendations. If you notice any mental health concerns in yourself or in a child or adolescent in your care, please consult a medical doctor.

Depression involves persistent sadness, irritability, loss of interest, low energy, and difficulties with daily functioning. disorders can emerge early, but presentation varies by developmental stage: While children often show more somatic symptoms (e.g., sleep/appetite changes), irritability rather than sadness, and behavioural withdrawal, adolescents tend to exhibit classic depressive symptoms (low mood, anhedonia), cognitive distortions, and increased risk for suicidality (APA, 2013).Early-onset depression is strongly associated with higher recurrence, chronicity, and increased risk for other mental health problems (APA, 2013). Treatment may include psychotherapy, family support, physical activity, and antidepressive medication when necessary (Dolle & Schulte-Körne (2013): https://doi.org/10.3238/arztebl.2013.0854. Physical activity as complementary intervention (Schulte-Körne et al., 2023)..