How to Recognize Signs of Teenage Depression
Teenagers are under a lot of pressure, especially in today's society. When teens begin to assert their independence, conflict with parents or authority figures may ensue. But today's teens face a host of problems their parents didn't have. The pressure to engage in sexual activity comes at a much younger age and standards for education have risen and trying to keep up may bring about frustration and anxiety.
It may be hard for a parent to tell the difference between normal adolescent behavior and teenage depression. Knowing what the signs of teenage depression are can give you insight to whether your children are going through normal teenage moodiness and rebellion or are suffering with more serious depression.
Symptoms and Signs of Teenage Depression
No one knows your child better than you. You should compare recent behaviors to those your child has exhibited in the past. You may notice that your child seems consistently unhappy or expresses thoughts of guilt, unworthiness or worthlessness. They may be easily irritated or get angry over everyday frustrations. You may find them crying when they think they are alone or easily brought to tears.
Other signs of teenage depression can be thoughts or words about suicide or death. They may talk to friends or others about how attractive death may seem at present. Difficulty focusing and concentrating are also signs of teenage depression as is their apparent lack of motivation or enthusiasm for things that they enjoyed in the past.
Your teen may exhibit restlessness and become easily agitated. They may also show signs of teenage depression in that they lack energy or are tired all the time. You might notice that they are sleeping more, or teenage depression can manifest itself with insomnia. They may eat more or just pick at their food.
What Parents Need to Know
A parent that is able to recognize the signs of teenage depression is so important. If you just chalk up their change in behavior as normal for this time in their life you may be doing them the greatest disservice. They may engage in self destructive behaviors such as substance or alcohol abuse or self inflicted wounds such as cutting. Girls may develop eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia. They may engage in early sexual behavior and run the risk of getting pregnant or contracting a sexually transmitted disease.
Parents need to be aware that signs of teenage depression can be treated and their children don't have to suffer. There are plenty of professionals that can help your teen in a variety of ways. The most important aspect is parents noticing that their children need help and not to ignore what might very well be a serious situation. Don't fool yourself into thinking that your child is immune from the symptoms and signs of teenage depression.
|
