Teen Depression:
Is It Challenging Your Child?

Teens often get a bad rap; they are viewed as being moody and “emotional”. Due to this belief, it can be difficult to know when something is wrong versus being “a phase”. While depression can manifest a bit differently at times with teenagers, they are just as susceptible as adults.

Research by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that 2.8 million American adolescents experienced at least one major depressive episode in 2014. This population represents 11.4% of children aged 12-17 with some symptoms of depression at any given time. In some cases, teen depression is minimized due to adjustment difficulties typically experienced during puberty. This can make it difficult for parents to spot the symptoms of depression.

Warning Signs for Depression in Teens

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) advised parents to seek help if their teenager has one or more of these red flags of depression:

  • Social isolation and poor communication
  • Difficulty in sustaining relationships
  • Constant sadness with crying spells
  • Low self-esteem
  • Lethargy
  • Hopelessness
  • Lack of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyable activities
  • Crankiness, aggressiveness, or hostility
  • Poor academic performance
  • Significant change in eating or sleeping patterns
  • Self-harming or self-destructive behavior
  • Desire to run away from home

This list can help you tell the difference between “normal” teenage ups and downs and depressive symptoms. If your child’s reaction to difficult circumstances is extreme and persists for too long, it may be beneficial to seek professional intervention.

Understanding the Causes of Depression

There is no single known cause of depression; multiple factors can contribute to the development of symptoms. These factors can include differences in the brain, where the levels of hormones and neurotransmitters play an important role in how one feels and behaves. Early traumatic life events can contribute to depression.

Other causes of depression in teenagers can include academic stress and peer pressure. Research also shows that depression has a biological component, which means it can be inherited from parents or close relatives with depression. Additionally, if your teen is regularly exposed to pessimistic patterns of thinking, they may feel helpless and may develop symptoms of depression instead of learning how to overcome challenges.

Getting Help for Your Teen with Depression

Depression is a serious condition that can become life-threatening if left untreated. Recovery is possible with therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Most teenagers will not seek help on their own, so you may have to start the process. Your child may need encouragement and support from adults to follow through with treatment.

Recovery often takes a qualified medical or clinical practitioner to help your child understand the condition and to provide the tools that can help them manage stressful and challenging situations.

A qualified, caring therapist independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services — Pinehurst, NC, will offer a safe and caring environment to help your teen address their depression. Professional treatment may be what your child needs to get back on track and restore their hope for a brighter future. Call now to request an appointment.

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