Teen Depression

There is no singular cause of depression among teenagers, and symptoms can vary from one adolescent to another.

Before diagnosing a teenager with depression, it’s important to recognize the physiological changes occurring within her body. The maturation process is marked by an influx of hormones, which contribute to the teen’s mood swings. Add onto this the stress of transitioning from childhood to adulthood, and it’s not uncommon for youths to display characteristics of depression.

But there are other factors that could contribute to teen depression. The death of a loved one, breakups with girlfriends or boyfriends, or even failure at school can weigh heavily on the psyche. These circumstances, coupled with growing pains, can result in a depressed state of mind.

Sad vs. Depressed

Sadness is part of the human condition, just as happiness is. Some situations call for us to be sad, such as the loss of a love. It’s when we’re unable to break out of this sadness that help is needed, and this is how you decipher sadness from depression.

While it’s normal for teenagers to experience mood swings, it’s important to notice when sadness evolves into depression. Chronic depression can be identified by a persistent, melancholy state. Strained relationships with family and friends, substance abuse, and other negative behaviors also indicate a need for professional assistance. Other signs of teen depression include:

• Excessive Sleeping
• Change in Eating Habits
• Criminal Behavior
• Obsession with Death
• Isolation

Do not take any of these signs lightly, or excuse them as “normal teenage behavior.” If your teen is consistently displaying one or several of these depression indicators, it’s time to get involved.

Treatments for Teen Depression

Teenage depression is a sensitive matter. Adolescents are emotional, and respond to depression more angrily than adults. For this reason, it’s important that parents remain open-minded and patient.

Prior to seeking professional help, parents should:

• Listen to their child;
• Don’t criticize;
• Make sure their teen knows he or she can speak to them;
• Don’t pressure their teen to talk;
• Take notice of positive things their teenager does;
• Suggest to their teen to visit the family doctor.

Most importantly, parents should keep their eyes and ears open. If (after trying to help their teen) nothing seems to work, it’s time to take charge. Talk to your family doctor, and begin the depression screening process. You’re the parent, and you know what’s best.

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Angie Woodward is a Registered Nurse in Wyoming and is the founder and owner/director of Trinity Teen Solutions, Inc. TTS is a licensed boarding school for troubled teens. Call 307-645-3384 for a free consultation.

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