Signs Of Depression In Teens

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As parents and caregivers, we want our teens to develop into strong healthy adults. We want to see them thriving and happy. Everyone goes through challenges and hard times. It can be even more difficult for teens as they navigate the world between childhood and becoming an adult.

There has been a lot of information in the news about depression. This article is about the specific things we already know about how depression looks in teenage years. It is important that we do not ever diagnose depression on our own by using tests that are available on the internet or in books. Instead please use the resources listed at the close of this article.

The following symptoms of teen depression are well researched and described by The Mayo Clinic Staff and The Canadian Mental Health Association.

What to look for:

Emotional changes

Be alert for emotional changes, such as:

  • Feelings of sadness, which can include crying spells for no apparent reason
  • Irritability, frustration or feelings of anger, even over small matters
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities
  • Loss of interest in, or conflict with, family and friends
  • Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, fixation on past failures or exaggerated self-blame or self-criticism
  • Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure, and the need for excessive reassurance
  • Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
  • Ongoing sense that life and the future are grim and bleak
  • Frequent thoughts of death, dying or suicide

  Behavioural changes

Watch for changes in behaviour, such as:

  • Tiredness and loss of energy
  • Insomnia or sleeping too much
  • Changes in appetite, such as decreased appetite and weight loss, or increased cravings for food and weight gain
  • Use of alcohol or drugs
  • Agitation or restlessness — for example, pacing, hand-wringing or an inability to sit still
  • Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
  • Frequent complaints of unexplained body aches and headaches, which may include frequent visits to the school nurse
  • Poor school performance or frequent absences from school
  • Neglected appearance — such as mismatched clothes and unkempt hair
  • Disruptive or risky behaviour
  • Self-harm, such as cutting, burning, or excessive piercing or tattooing

Research has shown that counselling can be effective in assisting people with depression. There are times when both antidepressants and counselling are effective for helping teens. If you believe your teen may be suffering from depression you can call 811 and speak to a Registered Nurse in BC. You can make an appointment to see a physician. If it is an emergency please go directly to a hospital emergency department. For more information you can also go to  http://www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/mental_health/teen.htm

The most important thing to remember is that depression is treatable and you as a parent or caregiver can help your teen become more healthy and happy.

Maxine Fisher M. Ed., MTA, RCC is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who works in private practise with families, children and adults. Maxine can be reached at 250-686-7582 or www.victoriafamilycounselling.com