How to Recognize Teenage Depression
Depression is a condition that affects many people, regardless of their age. The number of teenagers that suffer from depression seems to be growing all the time. Being a teenager in this day and age seems to be more difficult than it ever was. If you're a parent, the following information will help you to recognize some of the signs of teenage depression and some of its causes.
Causes of Teenage Depression
Depression can manifest itself in some very common ways regardless of the age group. The causes however can be very different between adults and teens. High School can be a very stressful and competitive time for any teenager. The pressures of performing well in the classroom and in athletics can create an extreme amount of pressure for a teen. If the goals that have been set for them, either by themselves or someone else, are not met, it can result in depression.
Another cause of teenage depression is the unfortunate fact that some kids are popular and some are not. The effects of being excluded from certain groups can be devastating for a teenager. The rejection and ridicule associated with it can lead to depression, and a host of other problems. Another major cause of teenage depression is drug use. Teens are getting involved in drugs at earlier ages than ever before. If your child is abusing drugs, depression is just one of the issues that need to be addressed.
Signs to Watch For
There are several things you can keep your eyes open for that would indicate your teen is suffering from depression. The first thing every parent should do is get to know their child. Too often, parents and children live as strangers under the same roof. The parents are busy trying to keep up with the ever increasing pace of life, and the teens are pretty much living their own lives and doing whatever they want.
Take some interest in your teen's life and what they are doing. Sit down and talk to them about the issues that are important to them. Insist on meeting their friends and knowing where they are going and what they are doing. These things can be done in a way that is not intrusive or controlling.
Even if you are doing all of these things and more, it's no guarantee that your child is safe from teenage depression. You could be the best parent in the world, but you have no control over the things your child experiences once they walk out into the world.
If you stay involved in your teen's life, you should have little trouble recognizing behavioral changes that could indicate a problem. If you notice that your child suddenly has no interest in the things or people they once enjoyed, it could be a sign of teenage depression. Another indicator would be a lack of energy, or wanting to sleep all the time. If they were once honor roll students and suddenly their grades slip dramatically, this could also indicate a problem.
There are physical signs that could point to teenage depression as well. Sudden weight loss or gain could tip you off that something is not right. Another very noticeable sign would be a decline in their personal hygiene. This is an indication that they are loosing hope and do not care about much of anything. If you do notice any of these signs, talk to your teen about what's going on and get them seen by a doctor as soon as you can.
