Teen Depression

Teen depression is a major concern for every parent. Left untreated, the condition can result in poor academic performance, promiscuity, drug abuse, or alcoholism. In severe cases, depressed teens may even commit suicide.

Estimates indicate that about 5% of teenagers suffer from depression. However, the condition is more common among teenage girls and minority youth. Teenagers who suffer from attention, learning, or anxiety disorders may also be vulnerable.

Signs of Teen Depression

The symptoms of teen depression are generally similar to those you find among depressed adults. Here are some common warning signs:

• Frequent crying
• Decreased interest in hobbies or favorite activities
• Social isolation
• Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
• Increased hostility, anger, and irritability
• Major changes in eating or sleeping patterns
• Lack of attention to personal hygiene
• Difficulty maintaining relationships with friends and family
• Unexplained headaches or stomachaches that don’t respond to medical treatment

Parents should also be concerned about teens who are skipping school, running away from home, experimenting with drugs and alcohol, or engaging in inappropriate sexual activity. These behavioral problems are classic signs of teen depression.

Treatment Options

If your teen has been acting out, you may wonder if his/her behavior is really teen depression or simply normal adolescent moodiness. However, only a qualified medical professional can accurately assess your child’s condition.

Although teen depression is a serious condition, it’s very treatable. With your support, your child can get the help he/she needs.

While many adults find relief from antidepressant drugs, these medications are generally not safe for treating teen depression. Among the newer antidepressant drugs, only Prozac is approved for use by people under age 18. Other medications may increase suicidal thoughts in young people suffering from depression.

Many experts believe cognitive behavioral therapy is the best treatment option for teen depression. This treatment focuses on changing negative thought patterns and developing proactive behaviors to cope with stressful situations. Ask your child’s pediatrician to recommend a qualified therapist in your area.

Tips for Parents

It is extremely difficult for most parents to watch their children suffer. As a parent, you may feel helpless and overwhelmed by your teen’s depression. However, there are many things you can do to show your support.

• Make an effort to tell your teen that you love him/her. Even if your child doesn’t seem to care, he/she needs to know that you’ll always be there.
• Let your teen know that you are available if he/she wants to talk. If your teen comes to you with a problem, listen carefully. Don’t make snap judgments or question his/her sincerity.
• Don’t criticize or yell at your child. Accept the fact that your teen is suffering from a mental health disorder. He/she is not merely lazy or rebellious.
• Encourage your child to stay active. Exercise has been shown to reduce the symptoms of depression. If your teen doesn’t participate in organized athletics, go for a walk or take a bike ride together.
• Prepare healthy foods for your family. A well-balanced diet can improve your child’s energy level and mental outlook. Whenever possible, have all members of your family eat their meals together.

Additional Information

• National Mental Health Association
• Nemours Foundation
• American Psychiatric Association

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