An increasing number of teenagers are experiencing depression but are not getting the help they need as many times the signs of adolescent depression are looked over as just some behaviors that happen during the teenage years as hormones are now coming into play. This causes a lot of confusion for both the teen and the parents. It is normal for some of these behaviors to occur and for people to feel unhappy at times. When parents notice a drastic change in their child and this unhappiness or other symptoms continue on for more than two weeks may be signs your teen has depression and require professional help from a mental health therapist.
Things that parents might see and teenagers may notice that indicate signs of depression can include:
- Persistent unhappiness or sadness
- Loss of interest in doing things
- Withdraw from family and friends
- Excessive amounts of sleep, trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- Getting into more trouble, riskier behaviors, drinking or using drugs, or trouble with the law
- Change in eating habits
- Feeling bad about themselves, feelings of failure, guilt, or having let others down
- Difficulty concentrating on things like school work, reading, or watching tv
- Change in school work, interest in school or grades
- Moving or speaking slowly or very fidgety
- Thoughts of being better off dead
- Self-harming, often times seen as cutting
As you read through this list, you might see some of these things as stuff that teenagers do. That is true to a degree but watch for the length of time these last and talk to your teen if you see these signs. Knowing what depression looks and feels like is a great tool for parents and their kids. As parents, let your child know you are there to help and support them. If they come to you needing help, listen to them instead of lecturing them and if necessary seek out individual or family counseling.
