Teenage Depression
When teenagers are depressed, most of the time it’s just normal “bad moods” or temporary melancholy. We all go through mild depression, not just teenagers. However, “real” depression is a serious problem. Real depression can impact every aspect of a teenagers life.
If you suspect that your teenager is suffering from depression, we recommend that you act immediately. Do not wait. Below we introduce you to valuable information about adolescent depression, what to look for, and what steps to take if you believe your child needs help.
The truth is that teen depression often leads to substance abuse, serious low self-esteem issues, self-mutilation, and sometimes suicide. But as a parent, there are many ways you can help your child. Learning all about “teen depression” is the first step toward finding an effective solution.
A Profile Of Two Teens Dealing With Depression
As part of its #LiveOutLoud series, GlobalGirl Media reporters profile two teens of color who struggled with depression. Dr. Elaine Leader, founder of the teen-to-teen hotline “Teen Line”, tells the story of two teens’ experiences with depression. Narration provided by Tammin Sursok of “Pretty Little Liars.
CULTURE OF SILENCE
This story in the video above is part of Teen Voices at Women’s eNews. Women’s eNews retained the 25-year-old magazine Teen Voices to continue and further its mission to improve the world for female teens through media. Teen Voices at Women’s eNews provides online stories and commentary about issues directly affecting female teens around the world, serving as an outlet for young women to share their experiences and views.
Facing Teen Depression To Fight Teen Suicide
Parent’s Guide To Teen Depression
Original article published by HelpGuide.com (to see the full article click here)
Signs And Symptoms Of Teen Depression
- Sadness or hopelessness
- Irritability, anger, or hostility
- Tearfulness or frequent crying
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Loss of interest in activities
- Changes in eating and sleeping habits
- Restlessness and agitation
- Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
- Lack of enthusiasm and motivation
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of death or suicide
If you’re unsure if teenager is depressed or just “being a teenager,” consider how long the symptoms have been present, how severe they are, and how different the teen is acting from his or her usual self. While some “growing pains” are to be expected as teenagers grapple with the challenges of growing up, dramatic, long-lasting changes in personality, mood, or behavior are red flags of a deeper problem.
Depression is very damaging when left untreated, so don’t wait and hope that the symptoms will go away. If you see depression’s warning signs, seek professional help. You can contact the professional counselors of Turning Wind Academic Institute by calling 800-845-1380.
Make an immediate appointment for your teen to see the family physician for a depression screening. Be prepared to give your doctor specific information about your teen’s depression symptoms, including how long they’ve been present, how much they’re affecting your child’s daily life, and any patterns you’ve noticed. The doctor should also be told about any close relatives who have ever been diagnosed with depression or other mental health disorders. As part of the depression screening, the doctor will give your teenager a complete physical exam and take blood samples to check for medical causes of your child’s symptoms.
As the depressed teenager in your life goes through treatment, the most important thing you can do is to let him or her know that you’re there to listen and offer support. Now more than ever, your teenager needs to know that he or she is valued, accepted, and cared for.
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