Signs Of Teenage Depression: 7 Warning Signals

Some teenagers can be aggressive individuals. It is hard to tell the damage they could inflict on themselves or to other people if their depression has taken over their better judgment. It is sometimes difficult to spot signs of teenage depression. Oftentimes, the unruly or deviant behavior of a teenager is seen as just part of growing up. In reality, it can be more than that.

Teen Depression

Depression is common among teens. It is hard for parents to tell when their teen child is going through this problem due to the tendency of adolescents to resist being questioned by parents. This is the stage in the person's life when we want to feel independent and the thought of nagging parents will cause us to embark on a state of rebellion. Parents and teachers need to have a guide in order to know the signs of teenage depression. Only then can they tackle the problem and effectively help the child to stop feeling depressed.

The signs of teenage depression are different from those of the depression among adults. The signs are difficult to detect among teenagers. The effects of depression among teenagers can also be more serious and harmful. They could create trouble in school and at home. Some teens resort to drug abuse and possibly even violent activities. More tragic effects could be suicide or homicidal violence.

What are the Signs of Teenage Depression?

1. The teenager might have extreme feelings of sadness or hopelessness. The reason from such feeling is usually not identified.

2. A depressed teen is easily angered for no apparent reason at all. They are usually irritable and hostile.

3. The teenager is very sensitive to criticism that oftentimes leads to crying. This stems from the deep feeling of worthlessness that they are going through.

4. A depressed teenager withdraws himself from most people around him especially family and friends. But he will always keep one person to be his confidant although most of the times, he is expected not to tell everything to his confidant. Also, a depressed teenager has the tendency to suddenly hang out with another group of friends. This group of friends is usually out of character when you consider the personality of the subject teen.

5. A teenager usually complains of headaches and stomach aches. If there are usual complains of such pains and the doctor could not confirm it after several medical tests and laboratories have been done, it is likely a sign of depression.

6. A teenager manifests a low energy level. A teenager who is always sluggish and easily gets tired is most prone to having depression. It is usual for this age group to be restless and beaming with energy. If they are not, it could mean or it could lead to depression.

7. Sleeplessness and lack of appetite is another sign of teenage depression. Teenagers are hearty eaters. They never seem to get full and they are always looking for something to eat. They also sleep at every opportunity presented to them. If the teenager is showing otherwise, watch out for other signs for it could also mean depression.

There are many other signs of teenage depression but these are among the most common. If the teacher could spot some of these signs in a student, it would be best if she would inform the parents immediately.

If parents are notified or have observed the signs of depression in their child, they should talk to him carefully and convince him that he needs to get professional help. It is not expected that teenagers will cope by using only self-help techniques. It is more important that they are extended help from people who really understand.

Treatment Options for Teens

Teen depression is often accompanied with substance abuse. If this is the case, a teenager must be sent to a rehabilitation center for detoxification before he can be treated for his depression.

When a psychiatrist spots signs of teenage depression, more often than not he would recommend medications to be part of the teen's depression therapy. This is to regulate the surging hormones and chemical imbalance in a teen's body.