Depression as a Teen Issue

There is no specific profile for depression, it can be experienced by anyone. Depression is not always triggered by an event such as abuse, illness or trauma. There does not have to be a family history of depression, alcoholism or addiction. Due to misinformation, it is often thought that things of this nature must happen in order for someone to experience symptoms of depression. Misconceptions, like these, often lead to teenagers going undiagnosed and untreated when they are experiencing depression.

Watching your teenager struggle with symptoms of depression can be difficult. You may feel worried and not know how to help them. It can be particularly difficult when symptoms first begin as you may wonder whether they are just “part of being a teenager”. Teenagers after all do trend toward mood changes and isolating behaviors. When you find yourself with such concerns it may be beneficial to seek professional help.

Statistics on Depression and Teenagers

Several sources – Reports of the Surgeon General, Kidshealth, Center for Mental Health Services, SAMHSA, WebMD, etc. – confirm that depression is the most prevalent psychological condition in the United States among teens. In fact, approximately 20 percent of the American adolescents are said to experience symptoms of depression before reaching adulthood.

According to a 12-month study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health (2012) on major depressive episodes among American adolescents, an average of 9.1 percent of the population has experienced depression. This figure can be translated into 2.2 million teens between 12 and 17 years old. Depression has been found to be more common among teenage females than males (13.7 percent compared to 4.7 percent teen males) and teens aged 15 and 16, both male and female, are estimated at 11.8 percent.

The Warning Signs

Each child is unique and may experience depression in their own way. Symptoms to be mindful of can include appetite changes, sleep disturbance, loss of interest in activities your teen once enjoyed, irritability, depressed mood, difficulty focusing, difficulty with decision making, negative views of self and even thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Your teen may tell you about these symptoms or you may observe these changes. Knowledge is power and knowing what to be mindful of can help you help your child.

The Consequences of Untreated Teen Depression

The immediate outlook and prognosis for depressed teens can seem grim at first glance. An adolescent struggling with depression is said to be at higher risk for other social, health and psychological problems. For instance, if your teen is experiencing depressive symptoms, they may be more likely to develop substance abuse issues. When individuals are under the influence of substances, they may also be more likely to engage in self-destructive behaviors such as self-harming and other risk-taking behaviors.

If your teen’s depressive symptoms are not identified and proper diagnosis, treatment cannot be provided. They may struggle in reaching their full potential if their symptoms are not dealt with. Self-destructive and risk-taking behaviors may cause them additional problems in the long run.

When in Doubt, Intervene

While your teen’s behaviors may not be “unusual”, it may not be wise to trivialize the signs and symptoms of depression that they may be exhibiting. If your teen is exhibiting symptoms of depression such as sad mood, decreased motivation and interest, sleep changes, appetite disturbance, difficulty making decisions, fatigue and/or thoughts or harming themselves for two weeks or more, it may be beneficial to seek help right away.

Licensed, independently contracted therapists can help you learn more about the signs and symptoms of teen depression. An expert can conduct an assessment to assess your teen’s symptoms and recommend the most effective mode of treatment. The power to intervene is in your hands; call Carolina Counseling Services – Southern Pines, NC today.

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