Can 3 year olds develop a depression or anxiety/stress disorder?

November 25th, 2009 | by Michael |
anxiety and stress
mom2two asked:


My daughter is not the carefree funloving child she used to be. It seems to have started since her brother was born but it’s not getting better. She’s sad all the time now. It’s been 4 months since his birth and I don’t know what to do. I feel like I’ve tried everything. I myself suffer from depression, I suppose it could be inherited, that’s why I’m worried about her.

GERARD

  1. 4 Responses to “Can 3 year olds develop a depression or anxiety/stress disorder?”

  2. By WhiteTrash_Momma on Nov 28, 2009 | Reply

    I would not think so, but I am not an expert. Every three year old I have met has been happy go-lucky and rambunctious. Never met a depressed toddler before.

  3. By Penelope R on Nov 29, 2009 | Reply

    Yes. It has been heard of. You have not given much information, so I can’t say much, but if your instinct is telling you there is a problem, listen to it. More info would help others answer.
    Edit: Children often change when a new sibling arrives. Obviously you will be doing everything to let her know that you still love her. Try and involve her in everything you do for baby. Occassionally you will have to let her be a baby again. Don’t keep all this to yourself, please find a person you trust to help you. Depression after having a baby is very common, especially if you have suffered before. It is not something to hide or feel ashamed of - you will need help if you are to help your child. Good luck

  4. By _...._ on Dec 1, 2009 | Reply

    Everyone can..

  5. By Elizabeth on Dec 3, 2009 | Reply

    I believe she is jealous. I was very jealous when my brother was born because of all the attention my mom gave to him.

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