The teenage years are some of the most complex times in a child's life. There are hormonal changes, peer challenges and increasing demands from school and family. Not all teens handle these transformations and tribulations with ease---some may actually develop depression. Depression is a serious illness than can have devastating effects if not recognized and treated. Extreme isolation, injury, substance abuse and even death can result.
Loss of Interest
One of the first signs of teenage depression is a general or sudden loss of interest in everyday or scheduled activities. If the teenager suddenly decides to drop out of sports, stops being social with friends or avoids her favorite hobby, she could be facing depression. Sometimes loss of interest even in family activities or socialization can lead to isolation. This could result in the teenager spending more time alone and not addressing the issues that may be leading to the depression.
Thoughts of Suicide
A very risky and sensitive sign of depression can be thoughts or talk of suicide. The problem with many teenagers who are facing depression is that they often do not openly discuss their thoughts on suicide. Many times parents and friends stumble upon notes, journals or personal diaries that discuss the teenager ending his life or hurting himself. If you even suspect that a teen may be thinking about hurting himself, contact the suicide prevention hotline immediately, at any time of the day, at (800) 273-TALK.
Crying or Emotional Outbursts
A sudden outburst or uncontrollable crying in a teen can be a sign of a severe underlying depression. While it is no secret that most teenagers are very emotional by nature, when it happens for no reason or seems to happen frequently, depression could be the culprit. Talking with the teen and trying to see if there is a viable solution to the problem or if the issue is more complex, needs to be the first step in recovery.
Irritability
Sudden outbursts of anger are a sure sign of depression, especially if there is no visible reason why the teen may be angry. Holding negative and depressive thoughts inside may also lead to irritability. This could be because the teen feels alone and frustrated with her feelings and hopes for the future.
Fatigue
Teens in their nature often sleep up to four or more hours than the average adult. This is normal and is typically due to the hormonal changes and stress their bodies feel from physical growth spurts. If you find that your teen is sleeping more than just a few extra hours a day, or sleeps straight through the day more than once or twice a week, this could also be an indication of depression. A medical checkup and physical exam from the pediatrician or family doctor should be scheduled to rule out any underlying illness and assist with treating depression if the doctor makes that diagnosis.
