As a parent, it can be difficult to recognize if your child is suffering from depression or just typical teenage angst. However, it is important to know the signs of depression and how best to support them through this difficult time. Here are some tips on recognizing depression in teens and how to support your child through a difficult time.

What Is Depression? 

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest that lasts for at least two weeks. It can interfere with a person's ability to carry out daily activities or enjoy life. Depression can affect people of any age, including teens.

What Does Depression Look Like in Teens?

Signs of depression in teens may be different than typical signs in adults and may include:

  • Changes in behavior
  • Mood swings
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Fatigue or low energy levels
  • Irritability
  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Thoughts of suicide or self-harm

Physical ailments, such as headaches or stomachaches

While some of the above are often just a symptom of being a teenager, others are not. The key is to recognize when your child's behavior has changed significantly and is a cause for concern. If you notice an unusual shift in behavior or are aware of any of the more dangerous signs of depression in your teen, it is important to talk to them about what they are going through and encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional.

What Causes Depression?

Depression can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Genetics. Research has found that a person's risk for depression can be inherited from their parents. In fact, you are five times more likely to experience depression if a close relative has experienced depression.
  • Trauma. Traumatic events, such as the death of a parent or physical abuse, can lead to depression.
  • Changes in life circumstances. Moving to a new school, changes in family dynamics (divorce or a new baby), or any other major life events can cause depression.
  • Stressors in the environment. Bullying, academic pressure, or family stress can all contribute to depression.

It is important to note that depression is not caused by 'bad parenting.' It is an illness that needs treatment, just like any other physical illness would require treatment.

What Are Some Treatment Options for Teens?

Thankfully, there are many treatment options for teen depression, including:

  • Psychotherapy
  • Medication
  • Lifestyle changes, such as eating healthy foods and exercising regularly
  • Support groups for teens struggling with similar issues
  • Family therapy

Finding the right combination of treatments for your teen will depend on their individual needs.

Recognizing depression in teens can be challenging, but it is an important task that parents must take on with patience and compassion. Knowing the signs of depression can help identify when it's time to seek professional help for your teen so they can get back on track emotionally and mentally.

Learn more about depression treatment.  

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