According to Medline Plus, a service of the U.S. Library of Medicine, a major depressive episode is characterized by extreme feelings of loss or sadness that last for more than several months. Major depressive episodes can be triggered by life experiences, such as a death of a loved one, but depression can also be caused by physical issues, such as an underactive thyroid or prolonged pain. Medline Plus notes that teens who exhibit signs of major depression should be assessed by a professional.
Significance
Mental Health America notes that a major depressive episode is far more serious and debilitating than a passing period of low mood that may often occur during adolescence. A major depressive episode can disrupt a teen's ability to participate in daily activities such as school or clubs. Teens who have symptoms of major depression are also at higher risk for self-harm and suicide.
Features
According to Medline Plus, teens who experience an episode of major depression will often experience changes in sleep and diet. They may lose their appetite or eat more that usual, and they may find it difficult to concentrate on school work. A severe depressive episode can also result in hallucinations or delusions.
Physical Considerations
Mental Health America suggests that proper assessment of a major depressive episode should include a thorough medical exam to rule out any physical illness. If the episode is the result of a physical ailment, such as a thyroid function, a doctor may suggest a treatment regimen that will treat the physical issue. Major depression can also be the result of psychological stress, and if there is no underlying physical cause, a doctor may treat the depression with psychotropic drugs and therapy.
Prevention/Solution
Medline Plus suggests that early detection and treatment of depression is critical. A doctor may advise a teen to change his dietary habits to ensure proper nutritional intake. Sleep habits are also critical to the resolution of depression, and a doctor will typically encourage a teen to develop consistent sleep patterns that allow for sufficient, but not excessive, physical rest. Physical exercise is also critical to the management of depression, and doctors typically recommend participation in sports or a fitness routine.
Expert Insight
In addition to seeking proper treatment with therapeutic drugs and counseling, parents of teens should be aware that substance use or abuse can often exacerbate the symptoms of major depression. According to Mental Health America, the use of alcohol or drugs may not only lead to more severe depression but will disrupt proper sleep routines and often counteract the benefits of psychotropic medications. Teens with symptoms of depression should be carefully monitored and warned about the physical risks of substance use.
