Parents of teenagers know the ups and downs that come with adolescence. But often, it may be difficult to know the difference between typical adolescent moodiness and something serious.
Teenage depression is on the rise in the U.S. – and significantly worse than it was a decade ago. About 40 percent of teens surveyed feel “persistently sad or hopeless” and 20 percent have contemplated suicide, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) survey.
Is it normal for teenagers to be depressed?
It’s totally normal for adolescents to feel down now and then. The transition from childhood to adulthood is tough on kids – to put it mildly. From raging hormones and body changes to school stress and peer pressure, it’s not unusual for kids to be testy, sullen or impulsive or to challenge authority as they zig-zag their way through some significantly transformative and challenging years.
But when a teen’s feelings of sadness or other signs of depression last for more than a couple of weeks, it could be more than teenage angst.
What are the signs of teen depression?
Depression can happen at any age. But the signs in teenagers can look different than they do in an adults who battle depression.
Signs your teen may be depressed may include:
- Mood changes, such as acting more irritable or sullen than usual.
- Oversleeping or not sleeping enough.
- Appetite or weight changes.
- Lack of interest in things they normally enjoy.
- Withdrawal from family and friends.
- Poor school performance, including dropping grades.
- Substance abuse, including drugs and/or alcohol.
- Lack of confidence or low self-esteem.
- Signs of self-harm, such as cutting, hair pulling, or picking at skin.
- Reckless behavior, such as unsafe sex, careless driving, and binge drinking.
- Expressions of hopelessness.
- Talk of suicide or making comments like, “I wish I wasn’t here.”
What are some typical causes of depression in teens?
There are a variety of issues that can cause teen depression, including:
- Brain chemistry and biology. The amygdala is the part of the brain responsible for emotional responses, like fear and anger. A not-so-fun fact about the amygdala is that it develops earlier than the front lobe – the area of the brain that controls reasoning and helps us think before we act.
- Genetics. Depression is more common when a blood relative also has the condition.
- Hormones. Fluctuating levels of estrogen and testosterone can cause mood swings, sensitivity to stress, and feelings of hopelessness and sadness, especially in girls during their period.
- Academic expectations. Demanding coursework, tests, and demands to excel in school can take a toll on mental health.
- Social pressure. In today’s plugged-in world, teens feel a constant burden to fit in and gain approval, which can lead to feelings of depression and hopelessness.
What can I do to help my teenager with depression and anxiety?
Parents and caregivers play a huge role in helping to identify depression and support their mental health. In addition to watching for warning signs of depression, here are some others ways you can help:
- Be patient. Emotions can run high when your teen is dealing with depression – for you and your child. Getting upset or pushing them to open up may cause them to withdraw even more.
- Listen without judgement. Let your child know you’re there for them and willing to listen. Avoid lectures or too many questions that might make them want to shut down.
- Show some extra love and support. Teens who are depressed often feel alone and unlovable. Even small gestures can make them feel heard, respected, and supported.
- Validate their feelings. Remind your child that it’s okay to feel the way they do and that many people have similar feelings. And don’t be afraid to share your own struggles with depression or anxiety as a teen. It could make it easier for them to open up.
- Encourage healthy habits. A regular sleep schedule, exercise, and a healthy diet are key to good mental and physical health.
- Limit screen time. Phones are a lifeline for most teens, but too much screen time can damage their mental wellbeing. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that kids aged 13-18 should aim for no more than 1-2 hours of recreational screen time per day. Consider screen-free times (for everyone in the house) during mealtimes, bedtime, or family activities.
- Make your home a safe place. Remove or lock up any alcohol, prescription medicines, and guns.
- Help them get the help they need. Untreated depression can lead to serious emotional, behavioral, and health problems – and increase the risk for self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
When should I seek help for my teenager’s depression?
If your teen is consistently sad or worried for more than two weeks, or they display other signs of depression that impact their daily life, it’s important to seek professional care. If left untreated, depression can lead to serious emotional, behavioral, and physical health problems that can affect them throughout their lives.
At Indigo, you don’t have to wait to get help. Indigo has teamed with Valera Health to offer virtual behavioral health visits for anyone age 12 and older. You and your child can start the journey to better mental health in just 3 simple steps:
- Complete a simple form and receive a callback at your convenience.
- Receive a no-cost consultation with a health connector to find the ideal match with one of Valera’s top-tier therapists or psychiatrists.
- Start a virtual visit from wherever you are.
Your care team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your teen’s mental health needs, lifestyle, and schedule.
What if my teen is suicidal?
You should take immediate action if your teen is in emotional distress or has thoughts about harming themselves. These confidential, free resources are available 24/7:
- Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or use the Lifeline Chat. The toll-free Spanish language phone line is 1-888-628-9454.
- Use the Crisis Text Line. Text HOME to 741-741 to immediately connect with a counselor.
If a loved one or friend is in danger of attempting suicide or has tried to harm themselves, call 911 or take them to the nearest hospital emergency room. Make sure someone stays with that person until they can get help.
