Today’s world offers so much promise for young people, but it also presents a whole new set of problems that older generations may not have had to face. Teenagers are under a tremendous amount of pressure to fit in, to be accepted, and to rise above myriad peer pressure problems as well as vanity issues and standards that have become the norm according to the media. As a parent or teacher, it might not always be easy to spot depression in teens, but this remains a growing problem that can sometimes have tragic consequences if gone unnoticed or untreated. Trusted adults in teenagers’ lives should try to remain vigilant and involved so that they can spot any red flags indicating their teen might be battling depression. Here are some signs to be aware of if you think a teenager in your life might be facing depression:
- Sleeping and eating habits may change. If your teen suddenly wants to sleep all day and refuses to get out of bed, or if he or she is not eating normally, this could be due to depression. Teenagers and young adults often feel a sense of isolation if they are depressed, and tend to sleep for a much longer time than most teenagers. Sudden loss of appetite is also a warning sign.
- Teenagers who become irritable and have a tendency to behave “out of character” may be battling depression. Look for sudden mood changes, and tearfulness or crying very easily are also signs. Any time your teen acts completely different than what you are used to should be considered a potential sign of depression, stress, or anxiety. Remember that mood swings are usually typical for teens, but mood swings will be much more extreme with depression.
- For active teenagers who participate in sports or other extracurricular activities, a sudden loss of interest is often a telltale sign that they may be depressed. Another warning sign is when this person stops going to sports practices or no longer seems interested in the things he or she once loved.
- Withdrawal is one of the most common signs of teenage depression. Teens usually will begin to become withdrawn from their parents and other adults in their life. As the depression level deepens, the withdrawal broadens and begins to include friends. If your teen seems distant and is no longer spending time with friends, this could signal possible depression.
- Problems at school with grades and performance can often lead to anxiety and other issues. Teenagers who usually do well in school and suddenly begin failing tests could be doing so as a result of depression. Many times, teenagers feel as if they have to live up to certain expectations regarding school grades, or where to attend college. If they feel self-conscious or are having problems passing certain subjects, this can evolve into feelings of depression. Try to get your teen to talk to you and share with you how he or she is feeling. If things become too difficult, it might be time to seek the help of a professional.
- In extreme cases, teenagers may become violent, hurt themselves physically, or express thoughts of suicide. In cases like this, it’s imperative that you and your teenager get help immediately. Ignoring depression does not make it go away.
For more information about teenage depression, please refer to the following websites:
Teen Depression Signs and Symptoms
Adolescent Depression Statistics
Depression and Suicide in Children and Adolescents
Mental Health Help for Youth and Families
Depression in Children and Teenagers
Treatment for Adolescent Depression
When a Teenager/Student Is a Danger to Self or Others
Adolescent Stress and Depression
Questions and Answers for Parents
Signs and Symptoms of Teenage Depression
Understanding Teenage Depression
Adolescent Depression Information
Speak About Teens: Depression and Suicide
Middle Adolescence and Depression
Depression, Medicines to Help, and Signs and Symptoms
Teen Depression Facts, Signs and Symptoms, and Treatment
Article written by Janice D. McDonald