Depression in Adolescents & Young Adults

Depression in teens is a mood disorder that affects many aspects of a person’s life. The disorder can manifest as symptoms of persistent sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest, as well as a lack of energy. Because everyone can experience these at times, symptoms must be consistent for a two-week period to be diagnosed with depression in adolescence.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, the most common form of clinical depression is major depressive disorder. Though depression can be multi-faceted and have a number of causes, episodes are often due to trauma and hormonal shifts.

What is Depression?

Depression is far more than just feeling sad. Because of its influence on a person’s mindset, feelings, and functioning, it can impair their daily life. Feelings of despair may result in broken relationships and an increased risk of suicide.

Depression in Teens is Treatable

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, depression treatment starts at home. Because of this, you should support your teen when they present symptoms of depression by listening instead of offering advice. This may encourage a willingness to share. Create a structured environment with schedules that include enough time for sleep. Encourage activity and healthy eating. Most importantly, be aware of the symptoms of depression getting worse and have a plan to address them.

A study by the American Academy of Family Physicians reported that 5.6% of teens show signs of depressions. They recommend interpersonal therapy for mild depression. For moderate to severe depression, a combination of therapy and medication may be needed. Because symptoms can reappear, the report goes on to say that treatment for depression in adolescence should continue for at least six months after remission.The Mayo Clinic reports that a very effective treatment for teens with depression includes communicative therapy as well as medication as necessary for more severe depression.Psychotherapy is recommended to be a component of the treatment of teen depression in the parent’s guide by The American Psychiatric Association, as well as the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.In short, depression is a mood disorder than can affect every aspect of a teen’s life. They don’t have to struggle alone. True Health Center for Emotional Wellness can assess and treat depression in adolescence. Contact Us Today.

If you or someone you know is at risk of self-harm, please call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

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