Teen Depression
Teen depression, or depression that starts in late childhood or during the adolescent years, is a huge area of concern for most parents. Teenagers with depression may exhibit symptoms that are different from the ones the average adult with depression might have.
It is very important teens and their parents work together to recognize teen depression before it becomes a life-threatening illness. It is also important parents realize some of the medications used to treat adults are not always safe for children.
Causes for and Warning Symptoms of Teen Depression
Adolescence is difficult for boys and girls alike. It is a time they transition from children to young adults. During the early teenage years, many girls and boys experience dramatic hormonal changes.
These biochemical changes can sometimes contribute to depression. Some teenagers also find they have a strong need to be independent, and any lack of independence may cause them to rebel, or feel more stressed. Chronic stress may contribute to or cause depression.
A teen with a family history of depression is also more at risk for depression.
Here are some warning signs you may notice among teens that are depressed:
- Engaging in reckless behaviors.
- Consuming alcohol, smoking or using other drugs.
- Acting out, irritable, angry or anxious.
- Losing interest in favored activities including sports or outings with friends.
- Pessimistic attitude that persists even when life seems to be well.
- Changing in eating or sleeping patterns which can lead to weight gain or loss.
- Ritualistic behaviors that seem out-of-the-ordinary.
- Thoughts of death or concerns about death, or talk of suicide.
What to do About Teen Depression
The first step toward recovery is recognizing depression and acknowledging it as a serious illness in teenagers. Women are often more likely to suffer from depression even as young adults, so parents should be on the lookout for symptoms of depression among their daughters.
The best way to address depression in teens is to find help as soon as possible. If you are a parent you might consider talking with a doctor and psychotherapist before bringing your teenager in to see them, because they will help you learn tools for communicating the need for help to your teen.
You should also support your teenager and let them know you are available to them. Rather than feel angry or irritated at seemingly irrational behavior, acknowledge how difficult your own teenage years were, and listen to your teen if they want to talk about their problems.
If you suspect or discover your teen abuses alcohol or other drugs, you should talk to a counselor or doctor immediately and get your child help. Most will refer you to a therapist and addiction center that specializes in treating children and teenagers with mental health disorders including depression.
Often antidepressant medication is harmful for teens. Some research suggests popular antidepressants may cause suicidal thoughts among young adults. If your doctor does recommend antidepressant therapy, make sure you ask about the potential side-effects or warning signs. Don't be afraid to get a second opinion either. When it comes to your teen, the best way to help is to fully inform yourself of the options available to help you and your teen overcome depression.
If you know of a teen that needs help immediately, you can call or offer them the number of several organizations that work with teens to prevent suicide.
- 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
- 1-877-YOUTHLINE (1-800-968-8454)
Don't be afraid to take action on your own, a teen's life may depend on it!