According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 3.2 million American adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 have experienced major depression. Unfortunately, because moodiness and irritability are common in teens, it can be difficult to distinguish between symptoms of clinical depression and regular growing pains. Educating yourself with this guide will help you better understand the condition so you can support your child and get them help if needed.

Signs of Depression in Teens

In addition to extended periods of sadness, common symptoms of teen depression include sleep problems (whether sleeping too much or too little), fatigue, difficulty concentrating, rapid weight loss or weight gain, lack of motivation, and feelings of shame, worthlessness, or excessive guilt. 

If you notice your teen isolating themselves, avoiding social situations, ignoring their school work, or engaging in risk-taking activities such as substance abuse or shoplifting, they may be struggling with depression. 

In some cases, severely depressed teens may be at risk of taking their own lives. It’s vital to take all indications of suicidal thinking and behavior seriously. Common warning signs include talking about committing suicide, writing stories or drawing pictures about death or suicide, romanticizing death, engaging in reckless or dangerous behaviors (including substance use and self-harming), and actively seeking out weapons, drugs, or other means to harm themselves.

How to Help

Luckily, teen depression is highly treatable. If you suspect your child may be depressed, it’s important to communicate with them in a compassionate and respectful way. Let them know that their feelings are valid and that you’re there for them if they want to talk. 

Look into your options for adolescent counseling, whether it be one-on-one therapy or a teen support group, or ask your doctor for mental health care recommendations. 

Get your teen the help they need at Alleghany Highlands Community Services. For more than 35 years, this center has been providing adolescents and adults throughout the Covington, VA, area with first-rate mental health care services. They also offer psychiatric evaluations, substance abuse treatment, a 24-hour suicide prevention hotline, and more. Visit their website to learn about their services and call (540) 965-2135 to schedule an appointment today.