If you're the parent or caregiver of a teenager, you should be aware that it's normal for teens to feel depressed from time to time. According to the National Institutes of Health's Medline Plus website, depression proves a common, temporary response to certain situations and stresses. Teenagers prove especially susceptible to depression for a variety of reasons, including hormonal changes, conflicts with peers or family and general issues related to maturing and growing up. If you think your child has become depressed for more than 2 weeks, they may have a depressive disorder and you should seek the advice of a physician or a licensed mental health professional. If you are worried that they are feeling suicidal or experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can call the National Hopeline Network at 1-800-SUICIDE, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Academic
A sudden decrease in the level of your child's academic performance may indicate that they have become depressed. According to Medline Plus, a faltering school performance and a drop in grades can indicate a possible symptom of adolescent depression. Your child may have always done well in their classes, but lately, they tell you that they feel distracted or unable to concentrate. Perhaps they don't tell you this at all, but you are getting reports from their teachers or school counselors that they worry your child is having difficulties in class. Your child may have started cutting classes more frequently or have a high risk of failing certain subjects that they previously did well in.
Physical
You may notice that your child experiences appetite changes or changes in their sleep patterns. They may feel like sleeping or eating all the time or they may not feel like doing either of these. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services SAMHSA Family Guide, your child might have more headaches, muscle aches and pains, stomachaches or just feel very low on energy. Fatigue and difficulty remembering ordinary things are also potential signs of teenage depression. In serious cases, depressed teens may exhibit symptoms such as cutting, self-mutilation or other self-injurious behaviors.
Social
You may notice that your child completely withdraws from everyone, including close friends and family. They may say that they feel like they have no one to talk to or that no one, including you, could possibly understand how they're feeling. They may cry more frequently, or they may feel completely numb, acting as though they don't have any emotions at all. They may be dealing with issues related to peer pressure and they may not be sure how to handle it all. According to MedlinePlus, a breakup with a boyfriend or girlfriend or fighting with friends may make your child feel depressed. Family issues such as the divorce or separation, fighting with siblings or the death of a family member can all be potential triggers for depression.
