Adolescence is a time of drastic change, both physically and emotionally. The pressure to succeed academically and socially can be overwhelming for many teenagers. Fears of rejection or being different can lead to low self-esteem and self-worth. It is important that parents and caretakers be aware of the signs that a teen may be heading into depression. Left untreated, depression may lead to serious problems at school and home, drug abuse and even suicidal thoughts.
Emotional Changes
Some teens experience sadness, hopelessness, irritability and hostility when depressed. According to Helpguide.org, teens tend to display irritable or angry mood rather than sadness as many adults do. Some teens may be extremely sensitive to any criticism and may overreact; they may suffer from low self-esteem and have feelings of hopelessness. While teenage moodiness is not unusual, any type of prolonged and drastic changes in emotional behavior should be of concern.
Lack of Energy
Most normal teenagers are involved in a host of activities in and out of school. An adolescent who displays drastic changes in energy levels may be signaling depression. He may sit at home most of the day and appear to have lost interest in previously enjoyed activities.
Suffering School Work
A teen who is functioning well typically is interested in succeeding academically. MedlinePlus explains that depressed teens often have difficulty concentrating and making decisions. They sometimes suffer from poor memory, making it more difficult to keep up in school. They then feel overwhelmed by the pressures from their school work and may give up. Parents should be aware of a sudden decline in grades or a lack of interest in doing well.
Changes in Friendships
Adolescents who are depressed may lose interest in previously cherished friendships and opt to be alone. Conversely, some depressed teens may begin forming inappropriate friendships that engage in risky behaviors such as drug use. Teens may withdraw from their parents in order to avoid confrontation about these friendships.
Changes in Eating and Sleeping
Over- or under-eating is a common symptom of depression. Eating disorders, such as bulimia, anorexia or binge eating, may accompany depression. Insomnia or sleeping too much also are signs of depression.
Thoughts of Death
The most serious sign of teen depression is suicidal thinking. According to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, depression increases a person's risk of suicide. Parents should be alert to teen talk such as, "You'll be better off without me" or "I wish I were dead." Other warning signs are a lack of care for hygiene and personal appearance, being a loner, saying that life is meaningless and talking or writing about death. These are serious behaviors that require immediate action and intervention by a mental health professional.
