Signs of Teen Depression

According to Jeanne Segal, Ph.D., psychiatrist, author and managing editor of Help Guide, teen depression is not a condition to be taken lightly. It is more than the occasional bad mood. It is a disorder which can lead to drug abuse, problems in both school and home and one that can lead to tragedies of the homicidal and/or suicidal nature. It is also a condition that can be treated. However, it is necessary to identify the symptoms to seek proper treatment.

Common Symptoms

It is no secret that teens face a whole host of pressures in today's society--the changes puberty brings about, the need to fit in and academic pressure, among other things. Just as a pressure pot builds up and explodes, so too, does a teen suffering from depression. Some of the more common symptoms to watch for include anger and hostility, changes in eating and sleeping habits, withdrawing from friends and family, lack of energy and concentration, feeling worthless, frequent crying and loss of interest in activities he used to enjoy.

Irritability

Although sadness may be a symptom of teenage depression, irritability is more predominant. You may notice your teen is suddenly prone to angry outbursts, grumpier than usual or frequently hostile. She may also become easily frustrated over the smallest issues.

Increased Sensitivity

If your teen is depressed, he may be suffering from feelings of worthlessness, one of the common symptoms. This can increase his sensitivity to rejection, failure and criticism. These symptoms are most commonly displayed in teens who are considered overachievers.

Bodily Pain

It is not uncommon for a teen suffering from depression to complain of physical aches and pains, such as stomachaches and headaches. If you take your teen for a check-up, and it reveals no reasonable explanation for these problems, depression may be the cause.

Withdrawal

According to Dr. Segal, adults suffering from depression tend to withdraw from everyone. A teen, however, tends to withdraw only from certain people, such as parents. You may also notice your teen is not socializing as much as he was before, or that he has a new group of friends. These are also symptoms of teenage depression.