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Depression in 5 1/2 year old

Last night my 5 1/2 year old came home from kindergarten and said he wished he was not born.
He said he does not feel like himself.  This is the second time since he started school he has said this.
He is an only child.  He is usually a very well behaved respectful child.  He has been "picked on" by two boys in his class in the beginning and has not seemed to get over this.  He has complained of stomach aches for about a week.
His eating has decreased dramaticly.

What steps do I take to address and help him?
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Avatar universal
I would say maybe the bullying is still continuing.  I would ask him more questions about it and see what he says.  I know it's tough.  
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Avatar universal
I'm very sorry your son is going through this. Being bullied can take the heart out of a kid - and if you don't take positive action VERY SOON, his reputation as victim will be cemented among his peers for years to come.  The good news is that you can stop the problem before it gets worse.  

First off, tell the teacher and principal what's going on.  (this wont fix things, but its important to start keeping records). in a nice way, put them on notice.

Then work with your son on how to deal with bullies. The Total Bully Solution is filled with practical and effective strategies you can teach your child.  Maybe you should check it out

I wish you the best.

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Avatar universal
I dont think it is depression. I think he is to young to be diagnosed as that. He probally dont like school if he is being picked on. You do need to teach him to stand up to them. Put him in karate or some activity(boxing) where he will learn how to defend himself and stand up to bullies and make new friends. You can't just change his school it is gonna happen every where he just needs to be taught how to deal with it
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Avatar universal
Children as young as your son can be medically depressed.  Our child was diagnosed with depression and severe anxiety at six years of age.  From your posting, it appears your son is fearful and anxious due to bullying.  Only a medical doctor could diagnose the "depression" aspect.

I think the first thing I would do is speak to your son's teacher to see if the bullying has returned.  Whether it has or not, I would ask that next year this child not be placed in the same classroom as the other boys, and if necessary, change schools.  But, the best thing a parent can do is teach a child how to "stand up to bullies" - perhaps others on this board can better advise you in this area.  There is lots of information on the internet re "school anxiety" or "bullying at school" or similar words/phrases which might be of help.  In addition, it might be wise to discuss this issue with your son's physician - he/she might be able to offer more insight.  Hope this helps ....
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