According to
the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, most teenagers have positive
mental health experiences. However, also true is that almost 20 percent of
teens will deal with a serious mental health issue at some point during their
adolescent years.
Mental health
issues versus typical teen behavior
Caregivers
of teens must understand that not all undesirable teenage behaviors indicate a
mental health issue. Most adolescents are prone to mood swings, and a brief
display of sadness, anxiety, or intense exuberance is, for the most part, quite
normal. Two common red flags that could signify a more serious mental health
issue include:
- Prolonged
behavioral symptoms that persist for two weeks or longer
- Symptoms
that interfere with personal relationships and daily functioning
A modern epidemic
Depression
is the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorder, affecting almost one in
eight adolescents each year. It can be defined as a persistent feeling of
sadness that affects a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. A person
experiencing continuous depression symptoms that last for a minimum of two
weeks is likely experiencing a major depressive episode. If left untreated,
depression can lead to severe complications, including health problems,
substance abuse, and possible suicide.
READ MORE: A professional's perspective on teen depression
Causes of depression
While an
exact cause of adolescent depression is not known, a variety of factors can
contribute to its onset. They include:
- Genetics
- Hormonal
changes
- Childhood
trauma
- Death of a
loved one
- Bullying
- Abuse/neglect
- Academic
difficulties
- Stressful
home environment
- Poverty
However, it
is important to note that the causes of a teenager’s depression diagnosis are
not limited to solely those listed above. An adolescent who has not faced any
of the challenges mentioned above can still wind up clinically depressed for
unexplained reasons. No young person should ever be considered exempt from
depression, no matter how idyllic their life may appear.
Risk factors
While it’s
true that nobody is immune to depression, certain adolescents are at higher
risk than others, including those who have:
- Co-occurring
mental health conditions including anxiety, eating disorders or substance abuse
- Physical
diseases, such as diabetes or cancer
- A family
history of mental health issues
- Chronic
family dysfunction
- Ongoing
issues with schoolmates
- Learning
difficulties or ADD/ADHD
- Experienced
childhood trauma
- Low
self-esteem
- Poor coping
skills
Additionally,
adolescents identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender are often
considered at a higher risk for depression than their heteronormative peers, especially
if their families are not supportive.
READ MORE: Discussing difficult topics with your teen
Signs and symptoms
To recognize
adolescent depression, all caregivers need to know the signs and symptoms.
Teenagers tend to rely on trusted adults to recognize their suffering and take
the necessary first steps toward getting them the help they need.
Common signs
and symptoms of teenage depression can include:
- Continual,
long-term feelings of deep sadness
- Changes in
appetite, weight, or sleep patterns
- Feelings of
guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness
- Decreased
interest in activities they once enjoyed
- An overall
decrease in energy level or sluggishness
- Trouble
concentrating or recalling information
- Avoiding/withdrawing
from friends/family
- Worsening
academic performance
- Unexplained
aches and pains
- Self-mutilation,
suicidal thoughts
It is
important to note that not all the behaviors listed above are definitive
indicators of depression. Instead, this list is intended as a guide to aid in
assessing each adolescent child’s unique situation.
How to help
If you suspect your teen is depressed, you should first schedule a
visit with his or her pediatrician. The doctor will do an exam, and if it’s agreed
that your child could be depressed, he or she may refer your teen to a
specialist for further evaluation and treatment.
READ MORE: Places you can contact if you think your child needs professional help
While
getting your child professional help for depression is extremely important,
there are ways to help your child at home, too, including:
- Setting
aside time each day to talk. Be willing to listen to your child without distractions, showing
that he/she is a priority. Prioritizing face time with a depressed child can
make a marked difference to his or her recovery.
- Encouraging
your teen to get involved. Suggest involvement in activities that take advantage of your
teen’s interest and talents. Encourage our teen to go out with friends or
invite friends over. Give your child opportunities to meet and connect with
other kids.
- Promoting a
healthy lifestyle. Ensure that
your child eats well, gets enough sleep, and participates in daily physical
activity. If on medication, gently remind your teen to take his or her medications
as necessary.
- Keeping your
home safe. Lock up
alcohol and all prescription medications. If you own guns, keep them locked up,
too, and stored separately from ammunition.
- Be patient
and kind. Depression
can cause teens to act grumpy and irritable. Remind yourself that these moods
are part of their affliction and try not to take things your child says or does
personally. A positive relationship with a parent or caregiver can make a world
of difference for a teen, especially one currently battling to overcome
depression.
Jill Valentino is a wife, mom of two, elementary educator,
and lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley.