Teen Depression - Signs, Statistics, Causes and Risk Factors

Teen depression encompasses far more than mood disruptions and moments of melancholy. This serious problem can influence every aspect of a teen’s life and, if left untreated, can lead to problems at home and school, drug abuse and self-loathing. Irreversible tragedies such as homicidal violence or suicide can also ensue. Parents, teachers and friends thus need to know the warning signs and be able to offer support when it is most needed.

Statistics on Teens 

Depression is the most common mental health disorder in the United States among teens and adults. Around 20 percent of all teens will experience depression before they reach adulthood. Between 10 to 15 percent of teenagers have some symptoms of depression at any one time, and around 5 percent suffer from major depression at any given time. Most teens with depression experience multiple episodes, which generally last around eight months. Fifteen percent of teens with depression eventually develop bipolar disorder, and a small percentage also suffers from seasonal depression, usually during the winter months in higher latitudes.

Causes and Risk Factors

One of the problems posed by teen depression is in finding its cause. It is impossible to isolate one source as universally responsible, and risk factors are numerous. Abuse is one of the most common causes, as victims often experience profound guilt and feelings of worthlessness. In addition, hormones place post-pubescent teenage girls in the highest risk group for teen depression.

Some girls may also experience depression when taking the birth control pill because of its effect on their hormones.

School bullying is another cause of teen depression. Teens experiencing such trauma will likely feel fear and anxiety about when and where the next confrontation will occur. Victims of bullying may also develop a strong sense of worthlessness. A study published by the University of Florida in 2008 shows that victims of bullying are at greater risks of depression even into their early adult years.

Other common causes of teen depression include:

• Conflict at home
• Genetic factors
• Insomnia and fatigue
• Lack of positive, supportive relationships
• Low self-esteem
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Presence of underlying disorders
• Stressful life events
• Substance abuse

Symptoms of Teen Depression

Yet another obstacle posed by teen depression is the way in which it manifests itself. The natural transition from child to adult can evoke conflict as teens assert their independence. Such drama can make it difficult to differentiate between depression and normal teenage moodiness. To further complicate matters, some teens do not exhibit sadness or withdraw from others. For some, symptoms of irritability, aggression and rage are the prominent signs of depression.

The most common signs and symptoms of depression in teens are:

• Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
• Irritability, anger or hostility
• Tearfulness or frequent crying
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Loss of interest in activities
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits
• Restlessness and agitation
• Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Substance abuse

Managing Teen Depression

If you’re unsure of whether or not a teen is depressed, the length of time the symptoms have been present can help you decide. The severity of the symptoms and how different the teen seems from his or her usual self are additional clues. When depression is suspected, one of the first steps is to talk about it with your teen. Share your concerns in a non-judgmental way, listen to his or her side and validate your feelings. Then encourage your teen to open up about his or her life.

Your family doctor should also be consulted for a depression screening. If there are no health problems causing the depression, ask for a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in children and adolescents. Then explore the treatment options that are available, including individual talk therapy, group or family therapy and medication. Each of these can be used as part of a broader treatment plan.

Sources

http://www.teenhelp.com/teen-depression/depression-statistics.html

http://www.teen-depression.info/overview/causes-risks/

http://www.helpguide.org/mental/depression_teen.htm

Comment on HelloLife

What's YOUR take on this? Does it bring up any questions? Can you offer more information on this? Did you just enjoy reading it? Leave your comment here!

First Name:

Last Name:

Your Email:

Security Code:

Confirm Code:

You are at least 13 years of age and agree to our terms of service.

(All fields Reqiuired)