A depressive disorder is when a person has low mood, less interest or enjoyment in activities and other symptoms that have lasted for at least two weeks. In children, they may become more irritable and have temper outbursts (referred to as disruptive mood dysregulation disorder) which can be confused for a paediatric bipolar disorder presentation.
A bipolar disorder is when a person has a manic or hypomanic episode. Mania or hypomania includes the person feeling very happy and positive (more than a normal level) or irritable and being lots more active and energetic for at least a week. They may also have a depressive episode.
Depressive disorders
Disruptive Emotional Dysregulation Disorder
Severe verbal and behavioural temper outbursts happening for at least 12 months.
Major Depressive Episode
Low mood (or irritability) and/or not wanting to go out or enjoying it when they do. This lasts for at least two weeks.
Persistent Depressive Episode (Dysthymia)
Low mood most of the day for more than one year.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Changes in mood, irritability and other symptoms in the week before a period starts and getting better a few days after the period begins.
Bipolar disorders
Bipolar I Disorder
Presence of manic episode (7+ days) with or without hypomanic or major depressive episodes.
Bipolar II Disorder
The person has hypomanic episodes (which last for four or more days) and has or has had major depressive episodes.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Chronic up and down moods for at least a year in children that may be severe enough to be classed as a depressive or hypomanic episode.
What will my GP do now?
Your GP may refer your child for treatment. Mild to moderate depressive disorders can be treated effectively with early intervention . A referral does not mean that your child is seriously mentally unwell. If it is possible that your child may be diagnosied with bipolar, your GP may refer you to a specialist for an assessment and treatment.
Your GP may also:
Refer you to a counselling service so your child can learn how to manage the depression
Refer you to a family service to provide family support
Refer you to a specialist service if the depression is severe or if your child might need medication
What questions could I ask my doctor?
What can I do to help my child now?
What can I do to help my child over time?
When should I make another appointment?
How quickly can I expect results?
What happens if my child gets worse?
Support Services
Enter your suburb or postcode to see options that service you location, state or territory.
Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (ICAMHS)
GP Referral RequiredSelf-Referral
The Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service provides specialist treatment for children and young people up to 18 years of age. Talk to your GP about this service or call ICAMHS.
The Primary and Community Health Psychology service provides free psychological assessment and treatment for children aged 0-12 and their carers. Ask your GP to refer you.
The SWSLHD Youth Health Service provides free counselling to youth aged 12-21 years. Contact one of their centres and ask to speak to their intake worker.
You In Mind is for young people over the age of 12 years
Both services include criteria to be met and a GP referral. Speak to your GP about this service and whether a referral would be beneficial.
Private options
Private Options for Child and Youth Mental Health
GP Referral RequiredSelf-Referral
There are many private specialist and allied health providers that can treat mental health concerns in children and youth. Speak to your GP about rebates for treatment.
Head to Health
Online/Phone
Head to Health is a free confidential service from the Australian Government.
Whether you are looking for mental health support for yourself, someone you care about, or just trying to improve your wellbeing – Head to Health is a good place to start.
Head to Health helps everyone access the mental health and wellbeing services that are right for them. It makes it easier to navigate and choose the most suitable care options, whether that’s face-to-face, via phone, or online.
Raising Children provides free, up-to-date, evidence-based, scientifically validated information about pregnancy, raising children from birth to 18 years and caring for yourself as a parent or carer.
Headstart is an online navigation tool that helps you find mental health support for you or someone you care for, including free and low-cost services available in-person and online.
Important: This information is to be viewed by someone who has received a diagnosis from their doctor. It is not designed to be used to diagnose a condition or as a substitute for ongoing medical care.
Health Resource Directory factsheets are endorsed by South Western Sydney PHN’s Community Advisory Committee and local GPs
