Feeling sad or losing interest

Moods can change, even a few times in a single day. Kids and teens can feel happy one moment and sad the next. Feeling sad is a normal part of life, especially when something difficult happens.

But sometimes, sadness can become very strong and last for many days or weeks. It can cause a child to lose interest in things they used to enjoy, like playing, going out, or talking with friends. They may seem quieter, get annoyed easily, or be tired all the time. When sadness is this strong and lasts this long, it can become a problem.

What is typical?

It’s normal for kids and teens to feel down when bad things happen—we all do. This can happen after an argument with a friend, a move to a new town, or a loss in the family. Usually, they feel better when things get better, especially with love and support from their family.

But it is a concern if a child stays sad even when good things are happening. You might notice they lose interest in activities they used to enjoy, avoid playing with friends, or seem to have no energy most of the time. It is also a sign for concern if the sadness lasts for many weeks or seems to have no clear reason.

When should I be concerned?

Younger children tend to find it easier to express their feelings directly. Teens may seem moodier than younger kids and may not be as open, which can make it hard to spot constant sadness.

Caregivers might notice their child stops doing things they used to enjoy. Or they may do activities but not have fun. Spending too much time on a smartphone or computer might mean they’re trying to distract themselves from sadness, but without truly enjoying it. When this occurs along with other changes in behavior or mood, it could be a warning sign.

Signs of persistent sadness:

• Being easily annoyed or impatient
• Feeling hopeless most of the time or saying that nothing will improve
• Lacking energy or seeming lazy most days
• Losing interest in things they used to enjoy
• Having trouble concentrating, even on simple tasks
• Having trouble making decisions
• Struggling with schoolwork or having a drop in academic performance
• Saying negative things about themselves or criticizing themselves frequently
• Having negative thoughts about the world, other people, or the future
• Changing eating patterns, either eating too little or too much
• Gaining or losing weight quickly
• Withdrawing socially or wanting to be more isolated
• Being tired most of the time
• Having trouble sleeping

Other signsmay include feeling very sad, feeling like nothing matters, feeling lonely, avoiding people, feeling worthless, or feeling excessively guilty. In some cases, especially among teenagers, they may talk about death or have thoughts about self-injury. Physical signs can include a fast heartbeat, shaking, sweating, or stomach pain.

These signs indicate that the sadness is greater than it should be and is affecting their life. Don’t wait for this to pass by itself. With support, treatment, and understanding, it’s possible to improve.

What can I do to help?

As a caregiver, you can try these things to help your child with persistent sadness:

1. Be there for your child.Spend time with your child and listen to what they are going through. If they can share why they feel sad, acknowledge it, embrace that feeling, and encourage open discussion without judgment.
2. Suggest new activities.Encourage your child to try new social activities or school clubs, such as interest groups, workshops, or sports. When kids feel sad, they may want to be alone, but being around others and doing fun things can help.
3. Encourage a healthy lifestyle.Eating right, exercising (walking, dancing, playing sports, or whatever makes sense for them), and getting enough sleep can improve mood.
4. Understand that sadness is not a choice.Sometimes kids feel sad even if everything seems fine. Remember, they do not choose to be sad, and it is not their fault.
5. Avoid pushing too hard.If your efforts do not seem to help, do not force them to join activities or criticize them. It will not make them feel better and can make them withdraw even further. The most important thing is that your child knows they can count on you, even in the most difficult moments.

What kind of professional support can I seek out?

It is normal for caregivers to feel worried if their child has a lot of persistent sadness. If you are worried about your child’s persistent sadness, there is help available.

There are several types of professionals you can talk to if you have concerns, including a school psychologistand your child’s pediatricianor family doctor. They can refer you to other specialists, like mental health professionals. Mental health professionals work with children directly and can also work with caregivers so they can support their children better.

You can also find free support through the Unified Health System (SUS). Care often begins at your local Basic Health Unit (UBS). Other services include Child and Adolescent Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS i), specialty centers, and clinics at university hospitals.