At Riskyouth programs

Teen Depression

There is nothing great about depression. Studies show that one in eight adolescences could be suffering from a type of depression. Symptoms of depression are not new. In fact it is quite common to hear people convey they are so depressed. What exactly is depression and why does it affect so many Americans? In general, depression is caused by the imbalance of chemicals called neurotransmitters. These chemicals help convey messages between nerve cells and the brain. Specific neurotransmitters help to regulate mood, and can cause depression if they run low.

Anxiety and stress are also caused by the imbalance of these chemicals. Sometimes these chemical imbalances are genetically inherited and by looking into a family’s history of depression could help determine a proper diagnosis for depression. Medications may be used to restore proper balance of the neurotransmitters. However, it is not recommended for teenagers to take the prescribed medications for depression because of the lasting side effects. It is better to try other alternative treatments for depression such as psychotherapy which involves talking, mixed with counseling to help the teen deal with his or her depression. Stress can also be a leading cause why these chemicals run low or become ineffective.

Teen Depression Signs And Symptoms

Everyone has experienced some sort of depression in their lives. Symptoms of depression will vary between adults and teens. Teens will experience more anger and irritability than adults. Teens frequently complain about unexplained aches and stomach pains. The teen will feel extremely worthless becoming more sensitive to criticism, failure, and fear of rejection. The good thing about teen depression is most teens will remain close to friends whereas adults may tend to isolate themselves from social settings. Parents and friends should be aware of the signs of the depressed teen. If symptoms persist longer than two weeks, they should seek help from a professional. Signs of teen depression:

• Increased sadness with crying that doesn’t go away
• Loss of confidence with feelings you’re no good.
• Lose interest in doing things you once loved to do.
• You don’t want to go out with friends anymore and would rather be alone.
• Lack of concentration and hard to make decisions.
• Overreact and become irritable at minor annoyances.
• Sleep patterns change with trouble sleeping or sleeping too much.
• Eating habits change causing you to eat too much or too little.
• You feel tired most of the time.
• You begin to have thoughts of dying or suicide.

If a teen has any of these symptoms of depression, they should seek help from a trained counselor, parent, or just talk to a close friend. Many thoughts can be directed in a positive way by simply talking it through to someone the teen trusts. 20% of teens with symptoms of depression go untreated, which could be avoided by simply being aware of the signs of depression. Depression untreated can lead to other problems such as drugs, alcohol, poor grades, and indifferences with family members, or even suicide. There is help. No one should suffer the pain depression can cause.