Teen Depression

It is normal for teenagers to experience sadness from time to time. Adolescence is is an unsettling period of human life, accompanied by intense physical, emotional and social changes.

Unrealistic school, family or social expectations can have a strong negative impact on teens. When things go wrong at home or at school, they tend to overreact, feeling that life is not fair and things “never go their way”.

As if all these weren't enough, teens often receive conflicting messages from friends, parents and society, making them feel stressed out and confused. They have much more information on life than their parents used to, with all the things they see on TV, in magazines and on the Internet. They also have to learn about AIDS, even it they don't yet have an active sex life yet and are not using drugs.

Teens need special guidance and care to understand all the physical and emotional changes they are going through. If they are in a bad mood almost every day for a longer period of time, it might be the sign of a serious mental disorder – adolescent depression. This is a serious illness that needs to be treated in time and properly.

How To Avoid Serious Depression in Teens

When teens are not feeling well, there are several ways to cope with these feelings. You need to help them develop a sense of acceptance and belonging, that is very important at their age.

They should also

• Try to make new friends. 
• Participate in all sorts of social activities, such as sports, job, school or hobbies. 
• Join organizations that offer support programs for young people.  
• Ask a trusted adult for help.

However, there are situations when, despite all these efforts, teens still get depressed. There are many factors that lead to teen depression. Some studies have shown some of those who suffer from depression have too little or too much of certain brain chemicals.

A family history of depression also increases the risk for teen depression. Other factors, such as sad events or side-effects from other medicines can also have a negative impact.

How To Recognize Teen Depression

Teen depression is sometimes difficult to diagnose, because adults expect teenagers to act moody. Also, teens do not always understand their feelings and may not be aware of the symptoms of depression.

The following symptoms can indicate depression, especially if they last more than a couple of weeks:

• Poor performance in school 
• Isolation from friends and social activities
• Feelings of sadness and hopelessness
• Decreased enthusiasm, motivation and energy 
• Anger and rage 
• Exaggerated response to criticism 
• Feeling unable to satisfy ideals 
• Low self-esteem or guilt 
• Indecision, poor ability to focus, forgetfulness 
• Restlessness and agitation 
• Changes in eating or sleeping behavior 
• Substance abuse 
• Problems with authority 
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts

How To Treat Teen Depression

Teen depression is a serious problem that needs to receive prompt professional treatment. Otherwise, it can even become life-threatening.

If adolescents refuse treatment for teen depression, family members should be the one to seek professional help.

Therapy can help teens understand why they are feeling that way and learn to deal with stressful events more efficiently. The treatment may consist of individual, group or family counseling. Sometimes psychiatrists prescribe medication as well.

Here are some of the most common and effective treatments for teen depression:

• Psychotherapy 
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy 
• Interpersonal therapy 
• Medication

When depressed teens admit they need help, they have taken the first important step toward recovery. However, only few of them will seek professional help by themselves. Most teens need encouragement from friends and family to seek help and follow treatment to overcome depression.