{"id":18672,"date":"2025-09-08T09:21:28","date_gmt":"2025-09-08T07:21:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/headspace.dk\/?p=18672"},"modified":"2026-02-23T10:05:59","modified_gmt":"2026-02-23T09:05:59","slug":"what-is-depression","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/headspace.dk\/en\/headspace-family-vidensportal\/hvad-er-depression\/","title":{"rendered":"What is depression?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Does my child have depression?<\/h1><\/div>

Depression is a mental illness that affects up to three to five percent of the Danish population. It is not the fault of the young people themselves if they suffer from depression, as it is not due to weakness, laziness or lack of willpower.<\/p>\n

Many of us may have a preconceived notion of what it means to have depression, and it can be difficult as parents or caregivers to know how to deal with it. Some may think that the young person just needs to \u201dpull themselves together\u201d, can grow out of it or is just acting like an impossible teenager. These are all harmful prejudices that don't help.<\/p>\n

If the young person you are close to has been diagnosed with depression, it is important that you actively listen and show empathy and understanding. Even if it may seem difficult and frustrating. We know how difficult it can be as a caregiver and that you want the best for your young person. So don't be too hard on yourself if you find yourself being impatient with the young person. We know what you can do. If you need support, sparring, advice or just a space for you as a caregiver, you can book a individual conversation<\/a> In Headspace Family.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Why does my child have depression?<\/h2><\/div>

Depression can occur if something has happened in the young person's life that has triggered the depression. It could be a loss in the family, a move or other life events. However, there doesn't have to be a reason for depression to occur. It's very possible that the depression has occurred without a specific cause being found.<\/p>\n<\/div>

Symptoms of depression<\/h2><\/div>

If you, as a caregiver, suspect that your young person is suffering from depression, there are a number of symptoms you can look out for. However, it is important to emphasize that these symptoms are only a general assessment, that there may be individual differences, and that these are just some of the symptoms that occur. Therefore, it is important that the young person is seen by a doctor before you can be sure whether depression is present.<\/p>\n

Some symptoms can be:<\/p>\n