Approximately five percent of teens are dealing with major depression at any time, according to the University of Michigan Depression Center. The start of puberty is a leading culprit in adolescent depression, particularly among girls. Young people experience stark physical, cognitive and emotional changes during this time.
Physical Changes
Puberty causes a number of physical changes in both boys and girls. Secondary sex characteristics typically start developing between the ages of 12 and 14. Although unrelated to reproduction, these developments are a visually obvious sign that the body is changing. Such physical changes include body hair growth and height increases in both sexes. Girls start developing breasts. Boys' voices deepen; they have greater muscle development. Adolescent girls start menstruating, although the age this begins varies considerably. It may start between the ages of 10 and 15, with the average being 12.5 years old, according to Medline Plus. Growth of boys' testicles, scrotum and penis may begin at age 9 and typically concludes by age 17.
Cognitive Changes
Beyond physiological development, adolescents' brains continue to change as well. Increased gray matter production, for instance, occurs just before puberty; it's likely related to the surge in sex hormones during this time, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Teens' ability to distinguish between right and wrong improves during puberty, as does their ability to engage in more advanced reasoning. Although they are also able to communicate their feelings better, adolescents often develop depression during this time. The influx of hormones and difficulty adjusting to changes in their bodies are contributing factors.
Psychosocial Issues
Adolescents going through puberty face conflicting emotions. Teens often start pulling away from their parents and instead focus on fitting in with peers. Their moods tend to change quickly; conflict may occur as they try to assert their independence. Young people going through puberty compare themselves to others their age, feeling immense pressure to look and act a certain way. This is a time when eating disorders may become an issue, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Dealing with Puberty
Parents should prepare their kids for puberty before it begins. Not knowing what's happening to their bodies can make a difficult time even more challenging. In addition to explaining the physical effects of puberty, parents need to address body image with their children. The Office on Women's Health cautions that parents who engage in restrictive dieting or put themselves down are more likely to have kids with unhealthy eating habits. Parents need to explain that weight gain during puberty is normal. Regularly putting the focus on adolescents' accomplishments and strengths unrelated to appearance are also important during this time.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Child Development - Early Adolescence (12-14 Years Old)
- MedlinePlus: Adolescent Development
- National Institute of Mental Health: Teenage Brain: A Work in Progress
- MedlinePlus: Adolescent Depression
- Womenshealth.gov: Body Image and Your Kids
- University of Michigan Depression Center: Facts About Depression in Children and Adolescents
