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Depression in adolescents is serious. This is partly
because young persons experience extremes of emotional intensity
and have inadaquately developed coping skills. Coupled with the
impulsivity frequently seen in adolescents, this can be a very unstable
time. If depression is not recognized and treated, it may last months
or years. Severe cases of depression may lead to suicide.
Many normal adolescents are easily offended, moody
and frequently argue with their parents. A depressed teenager also
displays these behaviors, but more so. Because all teens show different
degrees of this type of behavior, real depression may not be recognized.
Parents, teachers and other adultsmay dismiss the troubled teen
as displaying normal behavior.
Depression among teens is common. Two to three
percent become depressed each year. It occurs more in females than
in males and in teenagers whose parents have psychiatric problems.
Depression is more likely to occur if a young person has been through
a very stressful event such as a parents divorce or the death of
a loved one. However, many teens become depressed without going
through a serious stressful event.
Signs of adolescent depression are:
- Increased moodiness, irritability, arguing
- Poor concentration
- Poor school performance
- Sleep and appetite changes
- Increased self-criticism
- Feelings of dispair, sadness or emptiness
- Loss of energy
- Lack of interest in uaual activities and friends
- Increased talk of death and dying
- Threats of suicide
Several types of treatment have been successful
for treating adolescent depression. Treatments can include individual
or family therapy and medications. Most depressed teenagers will
improve after receiving treatment.
If you or someone you know appears to suffer from adolescent depression,
call for help.
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