Teen Depression: Know The Signs
There is more to teen depression than moods swings, melancholy, and defiance. It impacts everything in a teenager's life and can make them feel worthless, lead to drug abuse, or cause them to take matters into their own hands and become violent or suicidal. Being a teen is hard enough, but suffering depression on top of the normal roller-coaster of emotions and hormones makes it even worse. Teens are expected to be in bad moods at times, and even lash and defy the system with their strong sense of self. But depression can change all of that, altering a teen's personality. When this happens, it is time to seek professional help.
Know the warning signs
Teenagers are fickle creatures caught between the reliance of being a child and the self-reliance of being an adult. Many of them would rather not ask for help, so it is imperative that the people around them recognize the warning signs of depression just in case. That way, they can get the help they need but refuse to ask for.
Knowing the difference between teen depression and the usual drama of being a teenager is very important since both share many similarities. There is no formula by which to judge a teen and know if they are depressed or just moody. The best advice would be to watch the symptoms and see if they steadily get worse or suddenly improve. The symptoms include but are not limited to: sadness; hopelessness; irritability; hostility; anger; uncontrollable crying; withdrawal from friends and family; loss of interest in favourite activities; eating and sleeping habit changes; restlessness; worthlessness; fatigue; difficulty concentrating; and suicidal tendencies. If you think the teenager in your life is at risk, talk to them or seek professional help.
Adult depression and teenage depression are different
Depression can affect anyone at any age, but certain symptoms of depression are more prevalent in teenagers than in adults. Some of these can even cause unhealthy and rebellious behaviour. Irritability and anger are predominant in teens, more so than sadness. Unexplained physical aches and pains, such as headaches and stomach aches, are also a good sign of depression. Criticism and rejection can send a depressed teen over the top, and you may notice that while they are withdrawn from you and others, they are maintaining at least a few friendships, which may or may not be healthy. If you notice any of these symptoms becoming severe, make sure you help them get the help they need.