Everyone agrees that the teen years are often rocky. Predictably, teen behavior is often irrational. However, lurking behind all the “normal” teen behavior may be undiagnosed depression. Since 1 out of 5 teens suffer from clinical depression, and untreated teen depression can lead to such serious outcomes as substance abuse or even suicide, it’s important for parents to be able to recognize it. To complicate matters, symptoms of teen depression are sometimes different from symptoms of adult depression.
Though any persistent negative teen behavior is cause for worry, some of the most overt symptoms of depression in teens are:
Persistent sadness or persistent anger
While most depressed adults exhibit signs of sadness, some depressed teens may show more irritability, anger and hostility. Perhaps fueled by hormonal changes or the inexperience in how to handle strong emotions, teens may act out their depression by yelling, screaming, and actually becoming violent toward others. If this behavior is occasional, it’s probably normal; however, if it persists, it’s one of the leading signs of depression.
Physical complaints
While a lot of depressed adults may complain of stress or tiredness, depressed teens tend to complain of actual aches and pains, such as stomachaches or headaches.
Change in sleep patterns
Though teens often overtax themselves and need their required 9 hours of sleep, watch for excessive need for sleep, or a decreased need in sleep. Lack of sleep can increase depression.
Change in peers, amount of peer contact, or activities
This symptom can be tricky. For example, while depressed adults often isolate themselves from others, depressed teens may withdraw from most peers, but maintain contact with one or two. Or, a teen may withdraw from one circle of old friends and begin to associate with an entirely new circle.
Agitation and restlessness
Though all teens exhibit signs of restlessness at times, it’s important to note if the restlessness or agitation is ongoing and interfering with normal schedules and the ability to concentrate.
Weight gain or loss
A lot of depressed people will either increase or decrease their eating. Though teens may want to be thin and often diet, lethargy with weight loss or gain should be noted.
Change in appearance
Since most teens are very concerned about their appearance, when a teen no longer cares how they look, it may be a sign of depression.
