by 
The Curious Bag
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Like adult depression, child depression can be caused by a variety of factors. Some are external, some internal. Environment, genetics, illness and learning difficulties can each play a role when a child is depressed.
Environment
What's happening in a child's home life can play a major impact in his emotional health. Death of a loved one, divorce, battling parents and emotional or physical abuse can cause a child to tumble into feelings of helplessness, sadness and fear.
Genetics
If a child has a close blood relative who suffers from depression, he is more likely to become depressed. Researchers have not yet been able to identify the gene or genes responsible for familial depression.
Illness
The stress and uncertainty of battling serious and/or chronic illness can cause depression. Also, certain drugs or medical treatments such as chemotherapy can negatively affect a child's emotions.
Learning Difficulties
Depression can develop in a child who is having trouble keeping up in school. Poor performance can make a child feel inadequate and insecure.
Considerations
According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, depressed children can be misdiagnosed as having attention deficit disorder (ADD). Depression symptoms such as restlessness and an inability to concentrate can be mistaken for ADD.
Source:
Kidshealth.org: Causes of Depression
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry: Your Child--Depressive Disorders
Mayo Clinic: Depression (Major Depression)
More Information:
Mayo Clinic: What's The Most Effective Depression Treatment for Children
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