Depression
ADOLESCENT DEPRESSION
Depression is identified by a persistent sad mood, hopelessness, or feeling “down in the dumps” that does not fully go away for a period of a few weeks or more.
Everyone experiences these feelings at one time or another, and parents may notice a depressed mood in their teens much more than they used to. It may be confusing as to what is normal teenage behaviour and what might be cause for concern. One key concern is if a depressed mood (and other symptoms outlined below) continues for most of the time for a period of at least two weeks. As well, note whether signs are present in a variety of situations, especially if there is a change in their attitude toward things they used to enjoy. Also keep in mind that adolescents may express moods differently, often acting irritable or cranky rather than sad or dejected.
Some additional symptoms may include:
- Loss of interest or excitement for hobbies or sports
- Change in appetite
- Change in sleeping habits
- Excessive tiredness
- Feeling worthless
- Difficulty concentrating
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
CAUSES
There are many causes of depression in adolescents, ranging from a single event to things that have built up over time. It may also seem like there is no cause, that they can’t explain why they are feeling the way they do.
Common situations that may contribute to depression in a young person are:
- Difficult relationships with peers, family, or significant others
- Life changes such as a move, divorce, or death of a loved one
- Challenges with school work or school behaviour
- Struggles with another physical or psychological disability
Usually symptoms are present in different settings (such as at school and at home), and are likely most obvious in situations that require long periods of attention or thinking for something that is not very interesting to the person with ADHD. Signs may be minimal when they are in a new setting, doing things they enjoy, or in a one-to-one situation.
Usually symptoms are present in different settings (such as at school and at home), and are likely most obvious in situations that require long periods of attention or thinking for something that is not very interesting to the person with ADHD. Signs may be minimal when they are in a new setting, doing things they enjoy, or in a one-to-one situation.
VARIATIONS
If an individual shows signs of depression, they may have a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder. In some people, the signs of sadness and depression may end and be exchanged for a period of extreme happiness and excitement, paired with increased energy. An individual may feel like nothing could harm them, that everything is wonderful and may react with risky or impulsive actions. This experience may be called a manic episode and be part of a diagnosis of a Bipolar Disorder.
Some teenagers have had a depressed or irritable mood for one or two years as opposed to a few weeks, and it may seem less severe than what is described as Major Depressive Disorder. It may be described as just “the way they are”.
TREATMENT
There are a variety of effective treatments for adolescents experiencing depression, which often includes individual and family therapy, which can be effective for long term struggles with depression, as well as crisis events. In some cases, medication may also be prescribed by a physician. It is important to be aware of side effects and to understand that best long term results are achieved by using a combination of treatments.
SOURCES
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC