Depression treatment for kids, teens, and young adults
When sadness, irritability, or low energy won’t lift, school or work, friendships, and family life all feel harder. Our licensed clinicians help kids, teens, and young adults feel like themselves again, and help you support them at home.
Clinically reviewed by Amy Kranzler, PhD
- Licensed, specialized therapistsTrained in evidence-based care for kids, teens, and young adults
- Fully virtualVisits that fit around your schedule
- Evidence-based skillsStrategies for the moments that matter
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What is depression?
Depression is more than a passing low period. It is a persistent sad or irritable mood, or a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, that lasts two weeks or longer and interferes with daily functioning.
It is often accompanied by changes in sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, and self-perception. In children and adolescents, depression frequently presents as irritability rather than sadness.
Depression is common and treatable. With appropriate care and support, most kids, teens, and young adults experience meaningful improvement.
Everyday sadness or depression?
Everyday sadness
- Tied to a clear event, like a loss or a disappointment
- Comes and goes, or lifts within a few days
- Still enjoys friends and favorite activities
- Can still get through school or work
Depression
- Sad or irritable mood most of the day, nearly every day
- Lasts two weeks or more
- Loss of interest or enjoyment in things they used to love
- Gets in the way of school, work, friends, or family
How depression can look
Depression doesn’t look the same in everyone. Clinicians describe a few common patterns.
- Major depressionAt least two weeks of sad or irritable mood or loss of interest, along with changes in sleep, energy, appetite, or concentration.
- Persistent Depressive DisorderA milder but longer-lasting sad or irritable mood, present most days for at least one year in kids and teens, or two years in adults.
- Depression with anxietyDepression that occurs alongside persistent worry. The two commonly co-occur, and both can be treated at the same time.
Signs to watch for
Everyone has hard days. These signs matter when several show up together, last two weeks or more, and change how someone is getting through the day.
Mood and thinking
- Sad, empty, or hopeless most days
- Irritable, cranky, or quick to anger
- Losing interest in things they used to enjoy
- Feeling worthless or overly guilty
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
Body and energy
- Sleeping much more or much less
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Low energy or constant tiredness
- Moving or talking more slowly, or seeming restless
Behavior
- Pulling away from friends and family
- Grades or work slipping
- Dropping sports, hobbies, or clubs
- Spending much more time alone
- Skipping school or calling out of work
How it can show up at different ages
Kids
Younger kids may not say they’re sad. It often shows up as irritability, clinginess, or stomachaches.
- Crying or meltdowns more than usual
- Losing interest in playing with friends
- Saying things like “I’m bad at everything”
Teens
In teens, depression often looks like irritability and withdrawal rather than sadness.
- Spending hours alone in their room
- Grades dropping or skipping school
- Sleeping through the day and up all night
Young adults
Depression often appears around transitions like college, a first job, or moving out.
- Struggling to get out of bed for class or work
- Losing touch with friends
- Feeling stuck, like nothing will change
Not sure if it’s depression?
Depression often shows up alongside anxiety, ADHD, or a hard life change, and the signs can overlap. You don’t need to have it figured out. Our clinicians will help you understand what’s going on and what will help.
When to get help right away
Some signs mean you or your child needs support today, not after a consult. If you notice any of these, reach out now.
988 is the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, free and available 24/7. Our virtual care isn’t an emergency service.
- Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide
- Hurting themselves on purpose, such as cutting
- Giving away belongings or saying goodbye
- A sudden, sharp change in mood or behavior
How we treat depression
Treatment has three parts, and you’re involved throughout.
Therapy for you or your child
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a first-line treatment for depression in kids, teens, and young adults, with a focus on behavioral activation.
- Catch harsh self-talk and practice more balanced thinking
- Plan small activities that rebuild energy and mood
- Build coping and problem-solving skills for stressful moments
Support for parents
For parents and caregivers: learn how to stay connected when your child pulls away, what to say, and which warning signs need action right away.
- Support activities that rebuild energy and mood
- Encourage small, manageable steps and recognize progress
- Know when to get urgent help
Medication, when it helps
Many people improve with therapy alone. For moderate to severe depression, medication can help alongside therapy.
- Considered for moderate to severe depression
- Used alongside therapy, with close monitoring
For young adults 18 and older, care is one-on-one with their therapist and does not include parent involvement.
What parents are saying
“Lindsay LITERALLY changed not just my daughter's life, but our entire family dynamic. We thought we were going to have to consider homeschool, as she was experiencing debilitating separation anxiety. We assumed she would end up on medication - not only did she not need medication, she has not missed a single day of school this year.”
“Megan was so valuable to our family during a trying time in our lives. My son needed someone to understand him and show him how to ask for help when he needs it. He has gone from failing multiple classes to being an honor student. He’s been so helpful around the house and is all around a happy child. We’re so grateful that we made the choice to go with Handspring.”
“There has been a marked change in my daughter's ability to cope with anxiety and stressors and using the coping skills she learned she has been able to get through situations that she couldn't before. Her self confidence has also increased. Many thanks to Shanna - my daughter was sad to not see her each week any more, but the reason for that was a great one.”
“I have seen a huge improvement in the way my daughter communicates, manages her emotions, and behaves since she started her weekly sessions. I am so grateful to see such a positive impact with her and within a short period of time. Tried other solutions and none worked. Thankful for Handspring services helping our family."
“Lindsay LITERALLY changed not just my daughter's life, but our entire family dynamic. We thought we were going to have to consider homeschool, as she was experiencing debilitating separation anxiety. We assumed she would end up on medication - not only did she not need medication, she has not missed a single day of school this year.”
“Every aspect has been great so far. The onboarding process was quick and easy - everyone was so professional, responsive, and compassionate. Our child was quickly matched with a therapist with a suitable personality, style, and approach. Additionally, the parents’ needs are being addressed as well - the option to have that support is invaluable!”
“We were so happy with the care our son received. There has been such a change in him over the past year and we are so grateful! Morgan was able to connect with him so well and teach him so many skills that he now uses every day. Thank you all so much for everything you have done!”
“My daughter had such a positive experience with Handspring. Christine was amazing with her and my daughter felt very comfortable talking to her. My daughter’s self confidence and attitude have improved drastically since starting Handspring. Thank you so much!”
“Megan was so valuable to our family during a trying time in our lives. My son needed someone to understand him and show him how to ask for help when he needs it. He has gone from failing multiple classes to being an honor student. He’s been so helpful around the house and is all around a happy child. We’re so grateful that we made the choice to go with Handspring.”
“Natasha was extremely patient and kind, but also very clear and honest with my daughter when speaking to her. She also handled dealing with myself and my ex extremely professionally and was always available to help when I had any concerns outside of my daughter’s appointment.”
“Michael built a great relationship with my son early on in the sessions, therefore my son felt extremely comfortable speaking to him and opening up about his feelings. Michael was kind, fun and gave excellent coping techniques. My son is much more open and vocal with his feelings and uses Michael’s techniques when he’s upset or getting frustrated.”
“There has been a marked change in my daughter's ability to cope with anxiety and stressors and using the coping skills she learned she has been able to get through situations that she couldn't before. Her self confidence has also increased. Many thanks to Shanna - my daughter was sad to not see her each week any more, but the reason for that was a great one.”
Get started with therapy fast
Your first consultation is free, then insurance covers the sessions after that with a nominal copay.
Start with a free consultation
Meet with our clinical services team to discuss what brings you here and get matched to one of our licensed therapists. No waitlist, available within 48 hours.
Meet your therapist for an assessment
Meet with your therapist so they can form an accurate diagnostic assessment and develop an effective treatment plan.
Begin treatment within a week
With remote sessions, flexible scheduling, and length of treatment tailored to your needs, this is high-quality care that’s made to fit your life.
Questions parents ask
Don’t see your question? Talk to our care team.
Is it depression or just a teenage mood?
Moodiness is part of growing up. Depression is different: a sad or irritable mood, or loss of interest, that lasts most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more, and gets in the way of school, work, friends, or family.
Can young kids have depression?
Yes, though it’s less common than in teens. Younger kids often show it through irritability, clinginess, or physical complaints like stomachaches rather than saying they feel sad.
What should I do if my child talks about suicide, or if I’m having those thoughts?
If your child talks about suicide, take it seriously and stay with them. Ask directly how they’re feeling; asking about suicide doesn’t put the idea in their head. Call or text 988 for support, or call 911 if they’re in immediate danger. If you’re the one having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 now, or call 911 if you’re in immediate danger. You don’t have to handle it alone.
How is depression different from anxiety?
Anxiety centers on worry and fear about what might happen. Depression centers on sad mood, lost interest, and low energy. They often happen together, and treatment can address both.
Is medication needed?
Not always. Many people improve with therapy alone. For moderate to severe depression, medication alongside therapy can help.
Ready to talk it through?
A free consult with our care team is the first step. We’ll listen to what’s going on and help you decide what comes next.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Data and statistics on children’s mental health. Updated August 20, 2026.
- Zuckerbrot RA, Cheung A, et al. Guidelines for Adolescent Depression in Primary Care (GLAD-PC). Pediatrics, 2018.
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR), 2022.