Depression And Teens: Facts For Parents To Know

When you have a small child, helping them feel better when something is wrong is usually an easy process. However, when your small child becomes an adolescent, you may not always be able to mend every problem, especially if your teen has clinical depression. 

Teens don't always show the telltale signs of depression. 

Adults are more equipped to open up and explain their feelings, even though sharing true thoughts is not always easy for anyone. Teens, on the other hand, sometimes struggle to express how they are feeling. It is not uncommon for teens with depression to act out, withdraw from friends and family, or even show signs of aggression. You may also notice your teen:

• Loses interest in things they once enjoyed 
• Spends more time alone and less time interacting with others 
• Has more emotional outbursts than usual 
• Changes in appearance; cares less about how they look 
• Has different eating patterns or gains or loses weight 

Teenagers can be assumed to be moody, and the assumption can be true in many cases. However, ongoing changes can be a significant sign that a mental health issue is at play. 

The rate of teenage depression is on the rise. 

Even though it is a hard fact to face, parents really do need to recognize just how prevalent depression is among teens in the modern day. Some statistics state that as many as one in five teens experience depression before they ever reach the age of adulthood. The more you accept that teen depression is real and it can be a threat to the overall well-being of your teen, the more equipped you will be to act as a support system and seek the proper help. Depression treatment for teens can be highly effective. 

Teens with depression can be at risk of suicidal tendencies. 

Teens who are struggling with depression can be as much as 12 times more likely than others to attempt to take their own lives. It can be harder for a teen to express to others what they are feeling when it comes to depression. And, with the condition being so underdiagnosed, it is critical that parents who suspect their child is depressed take action.

As a parent, get familiar with some of the signs that your teenager may be considering suicide, such as giving away belongings or romanticizing ideas about dying. Step in if you see anything out of the ordinary — it could save your child's life.

For more information about depression, contact a clinic like Psyche PC.