From what I have read, depression presents differently in children than in adults, which is why you have to be really careful in diagnosing it. I would think the best thing to do is work with a therapist who specializes in working with children.
My DH suffers from depression, as does his daughter from his first marriage, so I try to watch for signs of it in my kids--I heard a stat (probably on Oprah, so take for what it is worth) that 40% of depression is learned behavior--a child sees their parent floundering, and thinks that that is the way to handle things. I know that is what happened with my SD to some degree, although the biological component was there, too.
Take good care, mamas--I hope you find the answers you are looking for, and the help you and your families need.
Mia
