Providing Support: 5 Signs of Depression in Teens

Teens deal with a variety of changing emotions that can negatively impact their lives. Depression is common among teens, but recognizing the warning signs is challenging. Both teens and their parents deal with challenges during adolescence and young adulthood. Teens deal with brain development, social pressures, moodiness, and emotional changes. Parents and educators must recognize the signs of depression in teens so they can take action.

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What Are the Signs of Depression in Teens?

Teens and their parents need to know there is help available through a depression treatment center. Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by consistent feelings of sorrow, loss of interest, and loss of enjoyment. The following are some of the signs teens may exhibit with depression.

Consistent Feelings of Hopelessness

Feelings of hopelessness can negatively impact teens in every area of their lives. Parents need to know their child's outlook on life by asking pertinent questions.

· What are they looking forward to within the next month?

· Is there anything they are excited about in the near future?

· What are their goals for the coming year?

If the teen is unable to share any degree of hopefulness for the future, this should throw up a red flag. People facing depression may find it challenging to experience joy in the present or plan for the future.

Consistent Self-Isolation

Depressed teens tend to push family and friends away. Teens may begin making excuses about being alone and having no friends. Check to see why the teen is suddenly avoiding activities, friends, and family members they once enjoyed.

Negative Changes in Schedule

When teens suddenly make drastically negative changes to their schedules, parents should be concerned. Parents may notice their teens suddenly begin sleeping all day or struggle to sleep at all. Teens may overeat or attempt to cut calories. Be mindful of any negative changes to a teen's daily schedule.

Poor Self-Image or Self-Hatred

Every teen looks in the mirror at some point and hates what they see. Consistent low self-worth should be a warning sign to parents. Does the child fixate on their failures? Are they overly self-critical or blame themselves for failures? Take these into account when noticed and seek professional help.

Increased Challenges in School

Poor performance in school, especially when it comes on suddenly, can be caused by mental health concerns. Depression can lead to low test scores, poor attendance, and a lack of responsibility. Parents and educators must investigate the reasons a child starts doing poorly in school.

Get Professional Help For Teens With Depression

Depression can impact every age, and teens are especially prone to developing the condition. Diagnosing and treating teen depression is critical. Parents who have noticed any of the above signs should take action and contact professionals for evaluation.

Teens deal with many changes in emotions and can easily fall victim to depression. Because they lack brain and emotional maturity, teens may be unable to cope with life changes and stress, leading them down the path to depression.

There is help available for teens with depression. Teens and their parents should not wait until the issues worsen. Scheduling an appointment allows teens to go through a diagnostic process so they can determine the best form of treatment to reduce the symptoms and help teens get back to more fulfilling lives.