What Are Signs of Depression in Teens?
Family often first line of defense recognizing signs
Family often first line of defense recognizing signs
Depression is a common mood disorder in the United States that can affect anyone – including teenagers.
In fact, depression rates in teens have risen in recent years. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 1 of 11 teenagers has an episode of major depression, every year.
Teen depression is a serious issue that goes beyond just feeling sad. It can make teens feel hopeless and impact their thoughts, emotions and daily life. This can lead to problems at school, in relationships and even to substance abuse or suicidal thoughts.
Recognizing the signs of depression in teens can be challenging because their behavior changes as they grow up for a variety of reasons. Peer pressure, school stress and physical changes can all play a role. This can make it difficult for parents to know if they are going through a phase or struggling with depression or anxiety.
“Teenagers can be moody and temperamental at times. Keep in mind, they’re going through physical changes and asking questions about who they are and what they want to do with their lives as they become more independent,” says Gurinder Dabhia, MD, a pediatrician at Scripps Clinic Rancho Bernardo.
“While occasional bad moods and acting out can be normal adolescent conduct, these types of behaviors also can indicate underlying depression or anxiety,” she says.
Learn how to spot signs of depression in teens and get help if needed. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for depression in children ages 12 to 18.
What can parents do to help?
Parents, caregivers and family members play a critical role in identifying and treating teen depression.
Parents can be supportive by listening and creating an environment where their teens can feel comfortable discussing their feelings without fear of judgment. “When it comes to teens, it’s important for parents or guardians to stay positive and keep the lines of communication open,” Dr. Dabhia says.
Regularly engaging in conversations and offering a listening ear can go a long way. “It’s okay to be persistent and not give up on your adolescent if he or she refuses to talk at first,” Dr. Dabhia adds. “Talking about depression can be tough but helpful.”
Talk but make sure to listen, she emphasizes. “Accept what your teen tells you without judging or criticizing. It is important to validate their feelings.”
What are signs of depression in teens?
Anybody can develop depression at any age. With young people, it’s crucial to recognize the signs as some might not be able to express their feelings well.
“Make sure to talk to your teen frequently and offer your support,” Dr. Dabhia says. “Make it clear you are willing to offer whatever support they need.”
Signs that show a teen may be struggling include changes in mood, like feeling sad or upset. They may also feel worthless or guilty and be very hard on themselves.
If your teen is losing interest in things they once liked, such as hobbies or spending time with friends, this could also be a sign of depression.
Depression can lead to significant changes in behavior and school performance. These can include:
- Declining grades or loss of interest in schoolwork
- Difficulty concentrating
- Frequent absences or tardiness
- Withdrawal from friends or after-school activities
Physical symptoms can include:
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Unexplained physical problems, such as headaches or stomachaches
- Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleep
- Changes in eating habits, such as overeating or loss of appetite
Watch for these signs and get help if they continue.
Substance abuse and depression
Some teens may use alcohol or drugs to cope with feelings of sadness or hopelessness. This can lead to a cycle of addiction and depression that can be difficult to break.
Watch for changes in your teen’s behavior that may indicate substance use. If you think your teen is using drugs or alcohol to deal with depression, it’s important to get help.
Risk factors
Family history is a risk factor. If a family member has depression or another mental health issue, a teen might be more likely to have it too.
Stress, trauma, and abuse can also lead to depression. It’s crucial to recognize these issues and support teens in coping with them. Major family changes, such as divorce, a new sibling or moving, can also cause sadness or anxiety.
When to seek medical help for teen depression
If your teenager is consistently sad or worried for more than two weeks, make an appointment with their doctor.
The doctor will ask questions to check if everything is okay. Parents are often present during these questions. The doctor will also have a private conversation with your child. If necessary, your doctor can refer you to a mental health specialist.
“Be ready to discuss specific information about your adolescent’s symptoms, including how long they’ve been present, how much they’re affecting your teen’s daily life and any patterns you’ve noticed,” Dr. Dabhia says.
Suicide prevention
Pediatricians can screen for suicide risk in addition to depression, anxiety or trouble coping with stress.
“Don’t think you can just talk your adolescent out of his or her anxiety or depression. Learn to take the stresses and worries of your child or teen seriously and never dismiss talk of suicide,” Dr. Dabhia says.
Any suicide talk should be taken seriously. Situations like this require immediate action. In such cases, call 911 or 988 for the 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline.
Some populations have higher rates of suicide or suicide attempts than the general U.S. population, including young people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or queer. The Trevor Project is an organization whose mission is to end suicide among young LGBTQ+ individuals and provides free crisis counseling services.
Treatment options
Treatments for depression in teens vary. One common treatment is psychotherapy or talk therapy, which helps people understand and change negative thoughts and behaviors.
Talk therapy can be done alone or with medication. Your provider may recommend starting with a low dose of antidepressants. It’s important to follow their advice when taking these medicines as they can have side effects.
Supporting teens with depression
Recovering from depression takes time and cannot be hurried. It’s important to encourage teens to express their feelings and listen to them without judgment. This support helps them feel understood and cared for during their healing process.
Family and friends play a key role in helping a teenager with depression. Family can provide a safe place, while friends can offer support and friendship.
It’s important to help teenagers with depression make healthy choices, including eating well, exercising and getting enough sleep. Encourage them to do things they enjoy, like art, music, sports or spending time outside. These activities can help them relax and feel better when they’re stressed or upset.