Warning Signs Of Depression In Teens: The Importance Of Early Intervention
Teens are a vulnerable age group, often facing unique transitional challenges in life that put them at a higher risk of mental health challenges. For example, puberty, social difficulties, and juggling school and family life can be overwhelming for many teens. In addition, with the increased use of social media in this age group, teens are often exposed to content that could cause them to question their self-worth, body image, and social status at an age when their brains are still developing.
For this reason, family members might keep an eye out for early warning signs of mental health conditions like depression to ensure their teens can receive early intervention and treatment if it becomes necessary. Below, explore these warning signs and find out how to seek help.
Understanding types and symptoms of depression: Depressive disorders in the DSM-5
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) is a diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association that many providers worldwide use to diagnose mental health conditions. The DSM-5 lists several depressive disorders that can fall under the general label of “depression,” including but not limited to the following:
- Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
- Substance- or medication-induced depressive disorder
- Depressive disorder due to another condition
- Other specified depressive disorder
- Unspecified depressive disorder
- Postpartum depression (PPD)
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
While it can manifest differently depending on the individual and the specific condition, depression often causes symptoms like prolonged sadness, apathy, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, negative self-beliefs, appetite changes, sleep changes, and/or other difficulties. Some people may also experience physical symptoms as part of depression, such as gastrointestinal distress, migraines, or fatigue. If you notice depression symptoms in yourself or your teen, reach out to your primary care provider (PCP) or a mental health professional for a depression screening.
Can teens be diagnosed with a depressive disorder by a mental health professional?
Teens can be diagnosed with any of the depressive disorders listed in the DSM-5, though major depressive disorder is the most common in this age group. Depressive disorders are not limited by age, and even young children can be diagnosed. Less common depressive disorders in teens include perinatal depression and substance-induced depression (previously referred to as substance-abuse-related depression). However, these types can still occur. Talk to a doctor or mental health professional to get your teen a depression screening.
Warning signs of depression in teens to look out for
Knowing the warning signs of teen depression can help parents and caregivers support those this age group and reduce the risk of severe symptoms like suicidal thoughts. Below are some of the warning signs to look out for.
Changes in self-care, sleep, and appetite-related behaviors that can be related to mental health
Although some changes in adolescent behavior are normal as they go through puberty and social changes, extreme changes in self-care, sleep, and appetite habits can be warning signs for depression. For example, a teen might start sleeping frequently or have more insomnia than usual. They may also begin to refuse meals or eat significantly more food than normal. If you notice they stop showering as much, don’t put much time into their appearance anymore, or stop partaking in daily chores, depression could be the cause.
Social withdrawal and irritability as symptoms of depression
Social withdrawal is a common symptom of major depression, often causing individuals to avoid talking to loved ones or asking for help. Some social changes are expected in adolescence, such as minor irritability or spending more time away from home. However, if your teen is avoiding even their friends at school, teachers, and other loved ones, this withdrawal may be a sign of a mental health condition.
Irritability can also be a symptom of depression. When a teen becomes irritable most of the time, always responds in annoyance, and gets angry quickly, they might be experiencing depression. However, other symptoms must also be present for this symptom to be a sign of a mental health condition.
Apathy as one of the potential warning signs of depression in teens
Apathy has been linked to depression and mental health challenges in children and adolescents. Apathy, sometimes called anhedonia, is a lack of emotion or ability to feel emotions. Instead of feeling sad, those with apathy may say they “feel nothing” or are “numb.” Numbness is a significant risk factor for suicide and depression.
Self-harm and thoughts of suicide: Finding support through the 988 Crisis Lifeline
Self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and suicide attempts are more common in adolescents. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, suicide is the second-leading cause of death in teens and young adults aged 10 to 24. In addition, around 17% of teens report having engaged in self-harm at least once. Self-harm can look like eraser burns, cutting, burning, scratching, and other forms of physical harm. Often, these wounds are made on the arms or legs where they can be hidden from others. If your teen starts wearing baggy clothing and covering up, especially in warmer weather, they might be self-harming.
You can talk to your teen about self-harm and suicide by being open with them about these topics and their seriousness. Let them know you are someone they can always come to without judgment and that you will not react angrily if they report these thoughts or actions to you. Remind them that many resources are available for these challenges—such as the 988 Crisis Lifeline—and that you will help them find additional support at any time. By being open, empathetic, and gentle with your teen, you can be a safe place for them to report self-harm and suicidal thoughts so they can get help.
Differences in media consumption
Teens today are often highly active on social media and other websites. Because of smartphones in particular, they may be engaging with media that you’re not aware of. If you notice your teen spending more time online, using apps like Kik, Whatsapp, and Telegram or going on chat sites like Omegle, talk to them about internet safety. Teens can meet abusive individuals online who may manipulate them into sharing sensitive information. They may also use the internet as an escape from depressive symptoms, going on social media to seek social validation and support.
How can parents support their teens?
The best way to support your teen may be to pay attention, as even small behavioral changes can be a sign of a mental health challenge.
The importance of early mental health interventions for depression and suicide warning signs
Early mental health interventions can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes. Studies suggest that getting any necessary treatment for mental health symptoms early in life can improve mental health outcomes as teens become adults. In contrast, a lack of support may cement unhealthy behavioral patterns in a child or teen and make them more challenging to work through in adulthood.
For this reason, seeking therapy if your child is facing emotional challenges—even if you don’t think your teen has a diagnosable mental illness—may help them make more positive choices and learn to work through challenges as they age. If your teen is diagnosed with depression, a healthcare provider may suggest continuing therapy, sometimes in combination with taking antidepressant medication. Always talk to a doctor before starting, changing, or stopping any medication for adolescent depression or another condition.
The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which medication or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. Do not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.
Other common mental health challenges in teens
Depression is not the only mood disorder or other type of illness to look out for in teens. Parents might also look for symptoms of the following conditions:
- Anxiety disorders
- Personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Conduct disorder
- Impulse control disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Eating disorders
- Bipolar disorder
You can request mental health screening from health care professionals or mental health professionals. Online screening tests from organizations like Mental Health America (MHA) can also be helpful tools, though they don’t replace a diagnosis from a licensed provider. Keep in mind that teens are more likely to develop a mental illness if someone in their immediate biological family has one, so routine screenings could be especially helpful for those with this type of risk factor.
Finding additional support from a mental health professional or the Crisis Lifeline
Some teens can have trouble attending or participating in in-person therapy, especially if they are struggling with socialization and motivation due to a mental health condition. In these cases, online therapy platforms for teens like TeenCounseling may be a more convenient option. Teens aged 13 to 19 can use this platform to talk to a therapist via phone, video, or live chat remotely from anywhere they have an internet connection. In addition, they can send their therapist messages throughout the week and the therapist will respond when they’re able, which may be helpful when they don’t want to talk to their parents but need advice.
Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp for adults can be helpful for teens aged 18 to 19 and adults over this age, such as parents or caregivers. Studies suggest that online therapy may significantly improve mental health outcomes for adolescents, potentially reducing depression and anxiety symptoms.
For suicidal thoughts and risk factors, call or text 988. Teens can also chat with 988 counselors online within the US.
Takeaway
What are the top three causes of depression?
A mixture of environmental and genetic causes are thought to cause depression in teens. A family history of depression, past traumatic experiences, and loneliness are three of the top causes of depression.
When should you worry about your teenage son?
If your teenage child is showing signs of mental health problems like sudden behavioral changes, changes in sleep patterns or appetite, extreme negative thinking, extreme sensitivity, and low self-esteem, pay attention. These symptoms may be minor at first, and teens often don’t talk about what they’re experiencing due to the social isolation symptoms of clinical depression. Getting teen support and having open conversations about mental health and resources in your area can be steps for suicide prevention and support for a depressed teenager or any kid experiencing any mental health challenge or stress.
What should you do when your daughter is depressed?
If your daughter is depressed, getting professional support can be important. Untreated depression can lead to several mental health risks in a teen’s life, including but not limited to significant stress, weight loss, angry outbursts, chronic physical illness, self-harm, and suicide. Having a support system in place can reduce the risk of these symptoms and risks and may help your child understand themselves better.
Does teenage depression go away?
If a teen is diagnosed with a depressive disorder, the condition isn’t expected to be cured. However, with treatment, some people experience a reduction of symptom severity or complete symptom remission in adulthood. There are only a few adolescent and adult differences in the presentation of depression. The following symptoms may be more common in adolescents, according to adolescent psychiatry:
- Substance use
- Anger and irritability
- Mood swings
- Self-harm
Adult differences are generally minor, and adults can also experience the above symptoms and behaviors. The clinical practice guidelines for treating depression in teens and adults are similar, with both age groups often being recommended modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in the initial management and ongoing management of symptoms.
What percentage of teens have depression?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and systematic reviews of teen depression statistics, 20.1% of all teens aged 12 to 17 in the US have a depressive disorder. This statistic is larger than the total percentage of adults aged 18 and up with a mental illness, and depression is considered most common in teens and young adults compared to older adults.
What age does depression usually start?
Depression can start at any age but is generally most common in teens and young adults. In some cases, depression starts earlier in life, such as in one’s early childhood. Treatment can be effective for all age groups, so getting a depression screening and early intervention can make a significant difference.
How can a teenager with depression be motivated?
A lack of motivation is a common symptom of depression. Increasing motivation in someone with depression can be difficult, though talking to a mental health professional can be one way to find help. In some cases, medication may increase motivation by increasing neurotransmitters in the brain that promote happiness and energy. Talk to a doctor before starting, changing, or stopping any medication for any condition.
The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which medication or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. Do not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.
What are strategies for coping with depression?
Below are some of the most frequently recommended coping strategies for depression:
- Journaling
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Spending time with loved ones
- Talking to a therapist
- Spending time in nature
- Exercising daily
- Practicing deep breathing exercises
- Getting rest
- Eating nutritious meals
- Practicing your hobbies
What age group is most affected by depression?
The age group most impacted by depression is young adults aged 18 to 25 and teens aged 12 to 17. Both age groups are at a higher risk of suicide. Older adults experiencing a midlife crisis around 45 to 60 can also be at a higher risk of suicide.
How do depressed kids act at school?
Depression can look different in everyone with the condition. Some children with depression may become socially isolated at school, whereas others may start to struggle more with academics but continue to focus on socialization. Other kids may not show signs of depression immediately, which can cause symptoms to get missed. The best way to know if your child is struggling with depression is to have an open conversation with them and get them a free depression screening with a doctor or therapist.
How do I know if my child is having a mental health crisis?
Children often hide signs of crisis from their parents out of fear of not being understood or of being sent away for treatment. For this reason, they might not talk to you about the crisis. To look for signs of a crisis, look for unusual behaviors in your child, such as staying out late, having severe insomnia, or staying in their room all the time. They might also start showing signs of depression, such as prolonged periods of sadness or apathy, social withdrawal, and a lack of interest in their hobbies. Mental health crises can be scary but try to be empathetic and present for your child. Let them know you won’t abandon them and want to get them the most support possible to help them feel better.
- Previous Article
- Next Article