Statistics show that approximately 20 percent of teenagers suffer from depression before they become adults. Teen depression is a disorder that can be caused by several reasons and typically involves discouragement, sadness, loss of self worth and of interest in activities. Doctors say that teen depression is usually based on the fact that teenagers are maturing and the influence of their sex hormones. Although most teen depression is a normal process there are other more serious reasons why a teen may be depressed. An example would be physical or emotional child abuse, chronic illness and stressful life events such as the loss of a loved one, a bad break up or failure in classes.
There are many depression symptoms in teenagers who suffer from depression face. Some of the normal symptoms may be: fatigue, feelings of guilt, episodes of memory loss, acting out in school or at home, rebellion, appetite changes, preoccupation with ones self and many more. There are also some serious symptoms that need to be treated medically and/or professionally. Some of the more serious symptoms may be: criminal behavior, substance abuse, insomnia and thoughts about suicide.
Many parents do not know how to go about dealing with teenage depression. If serious, teen depression should be treated professionally. There are many different treatment methods available. One of the most important treatment methods is therapy. Therapy gives the chance for the teen to talk about his or her issues with a counselor who has an unbiased opinion. If the symptoms are serious being admitted into psychiatric unit may be required especially in cases of suicide risks.
Another great treatment method would be medication. Speaking to your family doctor about what type of medication is ideal for your teen is the first step. Normally child depression and teen depression can be treated with SSRI's or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors which are a type of antidepressant that assist in positive actions in children and adolescents. If the depression continues after therapy and medication then it might be time for a psychiatric evaluation. A psychiatric evaluation consists of a physical exam, blood tests (to rule out medical causes) and a careful assessment of the teen’s mental history.
It is quite normal for teenagers to suffer episodes of depression and most of the time it is not anything serious to worry about. However, there are ways to develop a healthy relationship with the teen by having open communication. It is important that teenagers know they can turn to their loved ones for support and for coping skills. Validating the teen’s feelings is a very good way to let them know you are there for them. Their feelings may sound irrational or silly to you but for them it might be a cry out for help. Listening without lecturing is also a great way to offer support. Avoid ultimatums and never pass judgment. Encouraging social and physical activity is not only a great way to take the teen's mind of off his or her issues but is also a great way to keep them interested in something other than negativity. Just remember to be supportive and listen to your teenager, it will always give you a better understanding of what they're going through.
There are many depression symptoms in teenagers who suffer from depression face. Some of the normal symptoms may be: fatigue, feelings of guilt, episodes of memory loss, acting out in school or at home, rebellion, appetite changes, preoccupation with ones self and many more. There are also some serious symptoms that need to be treated medically and/or professionally. Some of the more serious symptoms may be: criminal behavior, substance abuse, insomnia and thoughts about suicide.
Many parents do not know how to go about dealing with teenage depression. If serious, teen depression should be treated professionally. There are many different treatment methods available. One of the most important treatment methods is therapy. Therapy gives the chance for the teen to talk about his or her issues with a counselor who has an unbiased opinion. If the symptoms are serious being admitted into psychiatric unit may be required especially in cases of suicide risks.
Another great treatment method would be medication. Speaking to your family doctor about what type of medication is ideal for your teen is the first step. Normally child depression and teen depression can be treated with SSRI's or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors which are a type of antidepressant that assist in positive actions in children and adolescents. If the depression continues after therapy and medication then it might be time for a psychiatric evaluation. A psychiatric evaluation consists of a physical exam, blood tests (to rule out medical causes) and a careful assessment of the teen’s mental history.
It is quite normal for teenagers to suffer episodes of depression and most of the time it is not anything serious to worry about. However, there are ways to develop a healthy relationship with the teen by having open communication. It is important that teenagers know they can turn to their loved ones for support and for coping skills. Validating the teen’s feelings is a very good way to let them know you are there for them. Their feelings may sound irrational or silly to you but for them it might be a cry out for help. Listening without lecturing is also a great way to offer support. Avoid ultimatums and never pass judgment. Encouraging social and physical activity is not only a great way to take the teen's mind of off his or her issues but is also a great way to keep them interested in something other than negativity. Just remember to be supportive and listen to your teenager, it will always give you a better understanding of what they're going through.
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