Teen Depression Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment

Teen Depression Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment Depression Childhood Depression Print An Overview of Teen Depression By Barbara Poncelet Barbara Poncelet, CRNP, is a certified pediatric nurse practitioner specializing in teen health. Learn about our editorial policy Barbara Poncelet Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on January 18, 2020 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on February 03, 2020 Depression Overview Types Symptoms Causes & Risk Factors Diagnosis Treatment Coping ADA & Your Rights Depression in Kids Elva Etienne / Getty Images In This Article Table of Contents Expand Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment Coping View All As much as 8% of teens experience depression each year, according to one survey.?? By the time young adults reach age 21, one study found that nearly 15% have had at least one episode of a mood disorder.?? Depression can cause problems such as difficulties in school, difficulties with relationships, and decreased enjoyment of life. At its worst, depression can lead to suicide, one of the leading causes of death for teens in the United States. Depression is an illness with many causes and many forms. It is a disorder of a person’s moods or emotionsâ€"not an attitude that someone can “control” or “snap out of.” But it is treatable with psychotherapy and/or medication, which is why its especially important for parents and caregivers to educate themselves about the disorder. Symptoms Adults sometimes don’t recognize symptoms of depression in teens because the disorder can look quite different from that in adults. A teenager with depression might have some or all of these signs of the illness: Sad or depressed moodFeelings of worthlessness or hopelessnessLoss of interest in things they used to enjoyWithdrawal from friends and familyCryingInability to sleep or sleeping too muchLoss of appetite or increased appetiteAches and pains that don’t go away, even with treatmentIrritabilityFeeling tired despite getting enough sleepInability to concentrateThoughts of suicide, talk of suicide, or suicide attempts How Teenage Depression Differs From Adult Depression Types of Teen Depression The National Institute of Mental Health states that there are two common forms of depression found in teens: major depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder (now known as persistent depressive disorder). Major depressive disorder, also called major depression, is characterized by a combination of symptoms that interfere with a persons ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. Major depression is disabling and prevents a person from functioning normally. An episode of major depression may occur only once in a persons lifetime, but more often, it recurs throughout a persons life.Dysthymic disorder, also called dysthymia, is characterized by long-term (two years or longer) but less severe symptoms that may not disable a person but can prevent one from functioning normally or feeling well. People with dysthymia may also experience one or more episodes of major depression during their lifetimes. The Types of Depression Commonly Found in Teens Causes There are thought to be many causes of depression. There are most likely many factors behind who develops depression and who doesn’t, and these factors are no different for teens. Traumatic life event, such as the loss of a loved one or pet, divorce, or remarriage. Any event that causes distress or trauma, or even just a major change in lifestyle, can trigger depression in a vulnerable individual.Social situation/family circumstances. Unfortunately, there are teens who live in difficult circumstances. Domestic violence, substance abuse, poverty or other family issues can cause stress and contribute to depression in a teen.Genetics/biology. It has been found that depression runs in families and that there is a genetic basis for depression. Keep in mind, though, that teens who have depression in their family will not necessarily get the illness, and teens without a history of depression in their family can still get the disorder.Medical conditions. Occasionally, symptoms of depression can be a sign of another medical illness, such as hypothyroidism, or other disorders.Medications/illegal drugs. Some legal, prescription medications can have depression as a side e ffect. Certain illegal drugs (street drugs) can also cause depression. Diagnosis Depression in teens is most often diagnosed by a primary care physician. Researchers suggest that teen depression is often underdiagnosed and undertreated.?? If teen depression is suspected, a doctor will often start with a physical exam that may include blood tests. Your teens pediatrician will want to rule out any other medical illnesses that may be causing or contributing to your teens symptoms. Your child will also be given a psychological evaluation. This often involves a depression questionnaire as well as a discussion about the severity and duration of their symptoms.   How to Get Help for Your Depressed Teen Treatment The Guidelines for Adolescent Depression in Primary Care (GLAD-PC) recommend the following in the management of teen depression: Educating teens and families about treatment options that are availableDeveloping a treatment plan that includes specific treatment goals that address functioning at home and schoolCollaborating with other mental health resources in the communityCreating a safety plan with steps that should be taken if the teens symptoms become worse or if they experience suicidal thinkingConsidering active support and monitoring before beginning other treatmentsConsulting a mental health specialist if symptoms are moderate or severeIncorporating evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and antidepressantsContinuing to monitor symptoms and functioning during antidepressant treatment; doctors and family member should watch for signs that symptoms are worsening and for suicidal thinking or behaviors The Dangers of Untreated Depression in Teens Coping Talk to your teen about your concerns. There may be a specific cause for why they are acting a certain way. Opening up the lines of communication lets your teenager know you care and that you are available to talk about the situation and provide support. Other things that may help your teen manage symptoms of depression include: Talking about concerns with family and friendsHaving a healthy support system  Using good stress management techniquesEating a healthy dietGetting regular exerciseFinding new things to look forward toJoining a support group, either offline or online Self-Help Strategies for Depressed Teens Also, talk to your pediatrician or family physician if you have concerns about your teen regarding depression. Your provider may be able to discuss the situation with your teen, rule out a medical reason for the behavior, recommend a psychotherapist, or prescribe medication. Lastly, never ignore the signs or symptoms of depression. Depression is treatable and there is help available for both you and your teen. If left untreated, depression can lead to thoughts of suicide or even the act itself. If your teen talks about suicide or attempts suicide, get help immediately. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cites suicide as the third leading cause of death for people between the ages of 10 and 24. If a teen is in immediate danger of suicide, call 911. If you or a loved one is having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 to get support from a trained counselor in your area. The Best Online Help Resources for Depression