5 Things You Need to Know About Teen Depression

1. Factors of Teen Depression

Adolescence is a tough period in a young adult's life. They have to deal with the pressures of home, school, friendships and romantic relationships. Due to the volatility of the teenage years, many teens are at risk for developing some type of depression. Teen depression may happen when a young adult feels stressed about things going on in their life. A death, breakup or fight can trigger the teen's depressive state. Teens with low self-esteem or poor self-image are especially at risk for depression. Heredity and chronic illness can also factor into whether a teen becomes depressed.

2. Signs or Normal Teenage Behavior?

Many parents of teens with depression do not realize at first that the adolescent is suffering from a mental disorder. They may feel as though the symptoms are reminiscent of normal teenage behavior. However, if the teen experiences depression symptoms for more than a couple weeks, it could signal a possible problem. Signs of teenage depression include poor grades, social withdrawal, sad demeanor, bouts of anger, restlessness, diet changes or threats of suicide.

3. Substance Abuse and Teen Depression

Often teens lack the willingness to seek out treatment for their depression. To handle their depressed feelings, they may turn to drugs and alcohol. They use these items to ease the pain they feel on a daily basis from their depression. Often, a diagnosed teen depression patient will also have to undergo a substance abuse treatment program. Furthermore, substance abuse can trigger teen depression.

4. Do Something Now

Parents will usually realize after the fact that their teen's depression could have been prevented. If you notice your teen going through a tough time or depression runs in the family, take steps to prevent a serious bout from occurring. Build up the teen's self esteem by encouraging after school activities, like clubs, music lessons and sports. Introduce them to positive kids who can encourage them to do well in school. Encourage the teen to keep a journal to deal with conflicting feelings. If you have major concerns, you may want to consider early intervention therapy.

5. Therapy and Meds for Adolescent Depression

When a teen starts showing depression signs, you'll want to get him help. Untreated depression during adolescence can lead to long-term depression symptoms. Make an appointment with a therapist to get an evaluation for your teen. They'll decide whether individual, group or family therapy can best help your teen. Your doctor may recommend antidepressants, such as Prozac. In severe cases, the therapist will suggest an in-patient hospitalization program.