Emotional indicators expressed in the body

In childhood and adolescence, emotional pain is not always expressed in words. Many children do not have the tools they need to verbalize their sadness, distress, or anxiety.

In these cases, the body becomes the main channel of emotional communication. Understanding physical symptoms as expressions of psychological distress is essential for early detection.

When the body “speaks” for the child

A child may appear functional in their environment but present persistent insomnia, frequent headaches, lack of appetite, constant tiredness, or disproportionate irritability.

These symptoms, often mistaken for simple rebelliousness or disinterest, are actually emotional warning signs. What is not said with words is manifested through the body. This is known as emotional somatization. Insomnia, for example, can be a direct consequence of internal worries or living in a tense family environment.

The urge to cry for no apparent reason, sudden isolation, or constant stomach aches can also indicate that the child is going through a complex emotional situation. These signs should be paid attention to, as they are often the first signs of a developing depressive process.

Anhedonia: a loss that is not always noticeable

A particularly relevant indicator of depression in children and adolescents is anhedonia, which refers to the loss of interest or pleasure in activities that previously generated enthusiasm.

For example, a child who previously enjoyed singing, dancing, playing with friends, or actively participating in class suddenly begins to appear apathetic, indifferent, and lacking in energy or desire to get involved.

This change, although subtle, should raise red flags for parents, teachers, and caregivers. Anhedonia is not just a “temporary lack of motivation”; it is an important clinical symptom within the diagnostic criteria for depressive disorder. When a child no longer responds with joy to previously positive stimuli, they are likely experiencing deeper emotional distress. Recognizing this pattern can make a big difference in early detection and appropriate intervention.

The mistake of minimizing a child's emotional pain

One of the most harmful attitudes adults can have toward children's suffering is trivializing emotional pain.

Expressions such as “that's nothing,” “when you grow up, you'll know what suffering is,” or “in my day, we didn't cry over silly things” delegitimize the child's experience and block their need to be heard.

It is essential to understand that, for a child, a conflict with a friend, the loss of a pet, or a bad grade can be as emotionally charged as an adult's reaction to a work or financial problem. The difference lies in the tools they have to deal with it. What seems insignificant to an adult can represent a real life crisis for a child.

Therefore, it is necessary to foster an attitude of empathy, emotional validation, and active listening. Asking how they feel, giving them space to express themselves without judgment, and showing them that their pain matters strengthens the emotional bond and creates a secure foundation from which the child or adolescent can begin to heal.

An invitation to look beyond the obvious

The invitation to families and schools is clear: look closely, interpret with sensitivity, and act with commitment. Physical indicators, emotions disguised as physical discomfort, or simply saying, “I don't like what I used to love anymore,” can be silent cries waiting to be heard.

Only if we stop minimizing and start accompanying will we be able to stop the body from being the only means of emotional expression and make children and adolescents feel safe to speak from the heart.