Signs of Depression in Teenagers

Depression in teenagers is a disorder that is characterized by the loss of a sense of self-worth, persistent sadness, discouragement and a loss of interest in normal activities. Depression can be a temporary response to stresses and situations in teenagers' lives. It can occur because of issues of independence from parents, changes in hormone levels and the stresses that occur during the process of maturing. According to the National Library of Medicine, adolescent girls are twice as likely as boys to have a period of depression.

Behavior Signs

Certain behaviors can be signs of depression in teenagers. These behaviors include episodes of acting out, such as unusual defiance and missing curfews, criminal activities like shoplifting, excessive sleeping and changes in eating patterns. Usually there is a lessened appetite in a depressed teenager, but there can also be an increase in appetite. The changes in appetite can result in changes in body weight. Substance abuse is another behavior that can be a sign of a depressed teenager.

Psychological

Preoccupation with self is a sign that a teenager could be depressed. Other signs of a depressed teenager include a mood that is depressed or irritable, difficulty with concentration or focus, a loss of interest in doing activities, a reduction in the pleasure normally involved with certain activities, exhibiting agitation or a short temper and thoughts about suicide or a preoccupation with the subject of death. These can result in plans to commit suicide and actual suicide attempts. There can also be excessive feelings of guilt.

Other Signs

Teenagers who are depressed can experience the unraveling of relationships with friends and family. There can be episodes of a loss of memory and difficulty with making decisions. Performance in school can falter and grades can drop.