Teen Depression -- What Every Parent Should Know

It is estimated that approximately five percent of adolescents suffer from depression. While teen depression is not as prevalent as adult depression, it can occur and is a real disorder that should not be ignored. Many parents blow off depression as normal teen behavior. While it's true that many teens can experience periods of sadness and anxiety, it is important to understand the warning signs of depression.

Depression can cause a myriad of symptoms that may include things like prolonged sadness, crying, hostility, sleep and appetite disturbances, and a lack of interest in things your teen once enjoyed. Some depressed teens may start withdrawing from friends and family. Schoolwork may suffer, and the teen may even start expressing their inner emotions by wearing dark clothing, writing sad poetry or listening to so-called depressing music. While some of these symptoms can be normal teen behavior, they can also be signs of something more serious. If your teen has been exhibiting distressing symptoms for longer than two weeks, the problem may be clinical depression.

Many teens become depressed because of problems at home or school. Others become depressed because of a chemical imbalance in the brain. Because suicide, self-destructive behaviors and substance abuse are all risks for depressed individuals, it is crucial that you seek help for your child. A good first step might be a consultation with the family doctor or a trusted counselor. Your teen's symptoms will be evaluated and a diagnosis will be reached. It is likely that your teen will need to speak with the diagnosing professional so that the professional can get a better idea as to what is going on.

When dealing with teen depression, it is important not to blame your teen or make them feel guilty. You also don't want to put too much of an emphasis on the problem because your teen may then feel embarrassed or ostracized. Simply express to your child that their well-being is your first priority, and that you want them to be as healthy and happy as possible. You may want to provide literature regarding depression if your teen is interested in learning more about their condition. When your teen understands that depression is not their fault and is a real medical problem, they may be more likely to cooperate with treatment. Whether or not this treatment will include medication is between you and your doctor, as antidepressants for teens is a controversial issue and carries certain risk factors.

Copyright 2007 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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