Teenage Depression: Signs, Treatment and Support

Adolescent depression is a fully actual and significant problem that affects millions of teenagers all over the world. It is not as simple as having a bad couple of days. It is more recurring and characterized by giving up and a lack of interest in previously enjoyable things.

Here's the critical difference: while everyone gets low sometime in their lives, depression is constant and never allows one to go on with everyday activities. It changes sleep patterns, eating habits, energy, and focus. In severe cases, it could even lead to thoughts such as harming oneself or committing suicide.

Spotting the signs

Adolescent depression does not portray similar symptoms in every person. However, some common signs to watch out for include:

• Emotional changes: Anhedonia, which is the inability to derive pleasure from other people, places, or activities.

• Behavioral changes: Decreased incentive for pleasure activities, isolation, lack of responsibility, changes in sleeping and eating habits, or recklessness.

• Physical changes: Constipation or diarrhea, shortness of breath, headaches, unexplained back, chest, or abdominal pain, persistent fatigue, weight loss or gain without trying to lose weight.

• Changes in thinking: Paranoia, frugalness, inability to think, depression, confusion, weakness, lack of appetite, trouble sleeping, numbness or tingling in face or limbs, shortness of breath, memory problems, dizziness, chest pains, or being suicidal.

Not all teenagers who manifest some of these signs will have depression. However, you should consult a qualified specialist if you observe several symptoms simultaneously and persist for two weeks or more.

Opening the conversation

Discussing depression with a teenager can be quite a challenge, but that doesn't mean it cannot be done.

Here are some tips for approaching the conversation:

·       Select a time that is not tense and also not crowded. Make your teenager understand that you need to discuss with them.

·       Raise your awareness and turn your attention to what you see. Do not say things like 'I think you are seriously depressed'; instead, say 'I have noticed you have been dull lately" or 'Are there things bothering you at the moment?'

·       Validate their feelings. Tell them it's alright to feel like this and that you are there for them in whichever way you can be there for them.

·       Do not offer opinions if they are not welcomed. This can stop communication. Do not ask questions that you expect to be answered with yes or no; instead, go for those that will make them speak more.

·       Suggest getting help seeking therapy or counseling. Assure them that you will help them get the appropriate assistance they require.

Treatment options for teenage depression

Fortunately, adolescent depression is a highly treatable condition. With the proper amount of encouragement and the aid of a professional, teenagers suffering from depression can lead normal and healthy lives.

Some common treatment options include:

·       Individual therapy: This is also called talk therapy, where your teenager is put through a qualified therapist who can help them understand their emotions, deal with them, and work on their social well-being.

·       Family therapy: This kind of therapy helps make families more effective in their interactions, establishing appropriate space and setting necessary boundaries as practical support for the teenager.

·       Medication: It is mainly recommended by a physician to utilize antidepressants to help stabilize symptoms.

Providing support at home

While professional help is crucial, there's a lot you can do at home to support your teenager who is struggling with depression:

·       Be open. You have to reassure your teenager that you are there with them and that you love them.

·       Encourage healthy habits. Proper physical activity, a balanced diet, and proper sleep can significantly affect mood.

·       Set realistic expectations. Recovery is a slow process, and you have to expect the odd setback. Be patient and supportive.

·       Limit screen time. Studies show that people spend excessive time of their days on the screens, and this makes depression symptoms worse.

·       Inform your teenager that you are available to listen to them in case they are feeling a certain way and that you will not scold them for it.

Conclusion

Teenage depression can be a tricky thing to deal with, but with timely diagnosis and the help of parents, friends, and appropriate medication and therapy, most adolescents are likely to pull through and lead normal, healthy lives.

With dedicated efforts on your part to learn about the condition, ensure a proper environment conducive to healing, and collaborate with professionals and the teenager, you can overcome depression and assist your teenager in getting to the best version of themselves. If you sense your teen is not improving, book a consultation with us here at Sunset Behavioral Health. We serve kids, teens, and adults in virtual mental health telehealth in Florida. You can book an appointment and be seen within 48 hours for a free consult. We can determine whether your teen needs medical attention and, if so, what will work best.