Adults are not the only people affected by depression; teen depression is also common among teenagers. Just as adults they are also affected by depression as well. While depression is a serious medical condition, it is treatable. When a teen begins to have feelings that interfere with the teen’s ability to live a normal and productive life this leads to having teen depression.
There are approximately 5% of children and adolescents with depression today. And any child or adolescent who suffers from attention or conduct disorders, learning or anxiety disorders have a higher chance of being diagnosed with teen depression. And there is some evidence that suggest depression may run in the family.
Teen depression has its distinctive signs and symptoms. Parents are urged to look out for several signs of depression their teenage children may show. Should you become aware of any of the following symptoms, contact your child’s doctor.
• If you teenage child cries or is continuously sad.
• Has lost interest in their favorite activities or sports
• Expresses feelings of hopelessness
• Shows signs of low energy or is always bored
• Is starting to not communicate and stays in their room or away from others
• Shows signs of having low self esteem and guilt feelings about their actions
• Over reacts when they experience slight rejection or failure
• If they get angry or are increasingly hostile
• If they are showing signs of poor concentration
• If they drastically change their sleeping or eating patterns
• Constantly complain of headaches or stomach pain
• If they are not going to school or are having trouble with their classes
• Talk about suicide or wanting to be dead
• Run away or talk about running away from home
Teen depression can affect teenagers in many ways. Your child who used to play often with friends may now spend most of the time alone and without interests. Things that were once fun, now bring little joy to the depressed teenager. Children and adolescents who are depressed may say they want to be dead or may talk about suicide. This is considered one of the most serious signs of teen depression as depressed children and adolescents are at increased risk for committing suicide. Depressed teenagers may even abuse alcohol or other drugs as a way of trying to feel better.
Teenagers and adolescents who cause trouble at home or at school may also be suffering from depression. Because the youngster may not always seem sad, parents and teachers may not realize that troublesome behavior is a sign of teen depression. When asked directly, these teenagers can sometimes state they are unhappy or sad.
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for depressed teens. Teen depression is a real illness that requires professional help. Comprehensive treatment often includes both individual and family therapy. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) are forms of individual therapy shown to be effective in treating depression. Treatment may also include the use of antidepressant medication. For help, parents should ask their physician to refer them to a qualified mental health professional, who can diagnose and treat teen depression in teenagers.
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