Depression is a serious mental health disorder that affects 1 in 20 teenagers. Teenages are known for being moody, but teen depression goes deeper than that. It can linger for long periods and recur again and again. Depression causes persistent sadness and loss of interest in activities. Depression can affect any teen and is often linked to other mental health disorders, such as anxiety.
There is no single, direct known cause for teen depression. It is the result of multiple factors. Depression can be caused by some or all of the following:
1. Biological chemistry: an imbalance of neurotransmitters can lead to depression
2. Hormones: teens go through many biological and hormonal changes during this period of life that can impact their mood
3. Genetics: depression is more common in teens who have inherited traits from blood relatives who suffer from mental health problems
4. Early childhood trauma: Abuse, loss of a parent, or other traumatic events during childhood can cause changes to the brain that leave teens more susceptible to depression
5. Negative thinking: teens may develop learned patterns of helplessness
6. Stress: environmental factors, such as peer pressure, family life, and problems at school can put teens at risk for depression
There are a few signs to look out for to tell if your teen suffers from depression. You may be able to notice both emotional and behavioral changes in your teenager that is suffering from depression. Changes that are extreme or persistent are often an indicator of depression. The following are symptoms of teen depression:
1. Sadness, hopelessness, anxiety or apathy
2. Irritability, agitation, anger, or hostility
3. Withdrawal from or loss of interest in friends, family or activities
4. Restlessness, fatigue, lack of energy or trouble sleeping
5. Excessive guilt or feelings of worthlessness
6. Extreme sensitivity to rejection, criticism or failure
7. Lack of enthusiasm or motivation
8. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
9. Memory loss
10. Preoccupation with death or thoughts of suicide
11. Unexplained physical symptoms, such as frequent aches and pains
12. Appetite changes, such as disinterest in food or overeating
13. Drop in school performance
14. Self-harm or neglected appearance
15. Use of drugs or alcohol
Depression can lead to many problems including, running away, low self-esteem,and reckless behavior. If you think your teen may be depressed, seek help. Encourage your teen to open up and talk about their feelings by creating a safe space. Bring your teen to see a psychologist that specializes in teen depression.
Image by amanda russell on Flickr Creative Commons.
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