Adolescence is a time of many changes and, for many teens, emotional turmoil. Because of this, it can be challenging to differentiate between depression and normal teenage moodiness. Recognizing the symptoms of teen depression is critical, however, since undiagnosed depression can lead to a host of deeper problems including substance abuse, eating disorders, reckless behavior, violence and even suicide.
Changes in Habits
When teens are depressed, others will often notice a change in their eating habits, which for some teens can mean an increase in appetite and for others a loss of it. Depression can also wreak havoc on sleep habits; depressed teens might sleep either more or less than usual. Changes in study habits are also common, and many depressed teens miss school or see a drop in academic performance.
Changes in Moods
Depressed teens are often unable to verbalize feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Parents should be on the lookout for behaviors indicative of mood changes. Rather than saying they are sad, they may become extremely teary. Rather than saying they feel worthless or feel little self-esteem, they may become overly sensitive to criticism, rejection or failure. This is particularly true, according to helpguide.org, for overachievers. Still other depressed teens do not appear sad at all, and instead become increasingly angry, irritable or even hostile. Angry outbursts can lead to conflicts with authorities, according to the University of Michigan Depression Center.
A key difference between ordinary teen angst and depression, according to Lisa Furst, director of education at the Center for Policy and Advocacy of the Mental Health Association of New York City, is "how long the angst lasts and the effect this mood has on the teen experiencing it." During Furst's interview with the New York Times Magazine, she notes that if a teen's mood or behaviors adversely impact peer and family relationships as well as activities, then it is beneficial to seek help. In addition, if teenage moods and behaviors last longer than two weeks, and do not improve with time or despite efforts that normally might cheer the person up, then it makes sense to involve a professional.
Changes in Behavior
While depressed adults tend to isolate themselves, helpguide.org states that teenagers will usually keep up at least some relationships. However, depresssed teens may curb socializing a bit, or begin to hang out with a completely different group altogether.
It is not uncommon for these adolescents to speak of leaving home. If thoughts of suicide or self-destructive behaviors begin, as can be the case with depressed children according to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, prompt identification and treatment of depression is critical to avoid injury or death.
Physical Ailments
Depression in teens often manifests itself physically, with complaints of frequent head and stomach aches. Others may experience difficulty concentrating, and report feelings of low energy, according to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
