Adolescent Depression
Unrealistic academic, social, or family expectations can create
a strong sense of rejection and can lead to deep disappointment.
When things go wrong at school or at home, teens often overreact.
Many young people feel that life is not fair or that things "never
go their way." They feel "stressed out" and confused. To make
matters worse, teens are bombarded by conflicting messages from
parents, friends and society. Today’s teens see more of what
life has to offer — both good and bad — on television,
at school, in magazines and on the Internet. They are also forced
to learn about the threat of AIDS, even if they are not sexually
active or using drugs.
Teens need adult guidance more than ever to understand all the
emotional and physical changes they are experiencing. When
teens’ moods disrupt their ability to function on a
day-to-day basis, it may indicate a serious emotional or mental
disorder that needs attention — adolescent depression.
Parents or caregivers must take action.
Dealing With Adolescent Pressures
When teens feel down, there are ways they can cope with these
feelings to avoid serious depression. All of these suggestions help
develop a sense of acceptance and belonging that is so important to
adolescents.
But sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, teens
become depressed. Many factors can contribute to depression.
Studies show that some depressed people have too much or too little
of certain brain chemicals. Also, a family history of depression
may increase the risk for developing depression. Other factors that
can contribute to depression are difficult life events (such as
death or divorce), side-effects from some medications and negative
thought patterns.
Recognizing Adolescent Depression
Adolescent depression is increasing at an alarming rate. Recent
surveys indicate that as many as one in five teens suffers from
clinical depression. This is a serious problem that calls for
prompt, appropriate treatment. Depression can take several forms,
including bipolar disorder (formally called manic-depression),
which is a condition that alternates between periods of euphoria
and depression.
Depression can be difficult to diagnose in teens because adults may
expect teens to act moody. Also, adolescents do not always
understand or express their feelings very well. They may not be
aware of the symptoms of depression and may not seek help.
These symptoms may indicate depression, particularly when they last
for more than two weeks:
Teens may experiment with drugs or alcohol or become sexually
promiscuous to avoid feelings of depression. Teens also may express
their depression through hostile, aggressive, risk-taking behavior.
But such behaviors only lead to new problems, deeper levels of
depression and destroyed relationships with friends, family, law
enforcement or school officials.
Treating Adolescent Depression
It is extremely important that depressed teens receive prompt,
professional treatment. Depression is serious and, if left
untreated, can worsen to the point of becoming life-threatening. If
depressed teens refuse treatment, it may be necessary for family
members or other concerned adults to seek professional
advice.
Therapy can help teens understand why they are depressed and learn
how to cope with stressful situations. Depending on the situation,
treatment may consist of individual, group or family counseling.
Medications that can be prescribed by a psychiatrist may be
necessary to help teens feel better.
Some of the most common and effective ways to treat depression in
adolescents are:
When depressed adolescents recognize the need for help, they
have taken a major step toward recovery. However, remember that few
adolescents seek help on their own. They may need encouragement
from their friends and support from concerned adults to seek help
and follow treatment recommendations.
Facing The Danger Of Teen Suicide
Sometimes teens feel so depressed that they consider ending
their lives. Each year, almost 5,000 young people, ages 15 to 24,
kill themselves. The rate of suicide for this age group has nearly
tripled since 1960, making it the third leading cause of death in
adolescents and the second leading cause of death among college-age
youth.
Studies show that suicide attempts among young people may be based
on long-standing problems triggered by a specific event. Suicidal
adolescents may view a temporary situation as a permanent
condition. Feelings of anger and resentment combined with
exaggerated guilt can lead to impulsive, self-destructive acts.
Recognizing The Warning Signs
Four out of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear
warnings. Pay attention to these warning signs:
REMEMBER!!! These warning signs should be taken seriously.
Obtain help immediately. Caring and support can save a young
life.
Helping Suicidal Teens
Looking To The Future
When adolescents are depressed, they have a tough time believing
that their outlook can improve. But professional treatment can have
a dramatic impact on their lives. It can put them back on track and
bring them hope for the future.
For More Information:
Contact your local Mental Health Association, community mental
health center, or if you or someone you know is contemplating
suicide, call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) or
www.hopeline.com.
National Mental Health Association
2001 N. Beauregard Street, 12th Floor
Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone 703/684-7722
Fax 703/684-5968
Mental Health Resource Center 800/969-NMHA
TTY Line 800/433-5959
American Academy for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
3615 Wisconsin Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20016
www.aacap.org
American Association of Suicidology
4201 Connecticut Avenue NW; Suite 310
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: 202-237-2280
