Depression in Teens: Signs And How To Help

Teenagers and moodiness seem to go hand in hand. But if your teen has been acting especially withdrawn or down - particularly for at least two weeks - it's important to take note of these behavior shifts. They could be symptoms of depression.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and several partner groups raised alarms about the soaring rates of depression among both adolescents and teens in America in 2021. By 2023, Mental Health America reports that 16.39% of youth (age 12-17) in the United States reported suffering from one or more major depressive episode throughout the year.

The Signs of Depression In Teens

As a parent, it's important to be on the watch for signs of depression so you can help steer your teen toward mental health support if they are needed.

First, understand that depression is different from occasional sadness. It's normal for your teen to feel sad from time to time in response to a difficult event - perhaps they didn't do well on a test or didn't make it onto a sports team roster.

Depression is different. Unlike ordinary sadness, depression lingers for weeks or months. It can strip your teen of energy and prevent them from gleaning happiness in activities they once loved.

Warning signs of teen depression include:

• Being excessively irritable and angry
• Complaining of headaches, stomachaches or other ailments
• Crying frequently
• Eating significantly more or less
• Experimenting with alcohol or drug use
• Feeling and acting tired all the time (i.e., slow moving and speaking)
• Getting into fights or engaging in violent behavior
• Having difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or oversleeping
• Having trouble focusing
• Losing interest in activities they used to enjoy
• Reacting sensitively to criticism
• Skipping school or performing poorly at school
• Socializing less with friends and parents
• Thinking about dying or suicide

Causes Of Teen Depression

Although any youth or teen can be susceptible to depression, your child may be especially at risk of developing depression if they are:

• A close relative of someone who struggled with depression
• A victim of bullying or cyberbullying
• Female (girls are twice as likely as boys to suffer from major depression)
• Going through a traumatic event or suffering a major loss

Help Prevent Youth Suicide

People who consider suicide often display symptoms of depression, irritability, rage, anxiety or humiliation. In addition to exhibiting a loss of interest in former hobbies and activities, they may also act recklessly.

Be on particular watch for warning signs of suicide in the words and actions of your teen. These can include:

• Admitting they have thought of killing themselves
• Expressing feelings of being a burden to others
• Giving away prized possessions
• Saying they have no reason to live
• Sharing feelings of unbearable pain
• Talking about feeling trapped
• Visiting or calling people to say goodbye

If you notice your teen engaging in any of these behaviors or conversation patterns, seek help for them immediately. You can call 911 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline by simply dialing 988.

What To Do If Your Teen Is Facing Depression

As a parent, you're in the best position to notice changes in your teen. Be mindful of sudden shifts in their behavior or demeanor - and keep an eye out for warning signs of depression or suicidal ideation.

If you notice changes, ask your teen in a supportive way if they might be struggling with depression. Allow your teen to discuss their mental health challenges without fear of being judged.

How To Talk To Teens About Depression

"Spotting signs of depression and having a conversation about it is a reason why it's so important for kids to have their annual exams with their primary care physician," said Chantal Walker, MD, a pediatrician with the Franciscan Physician Network Coolspring Health Center in Michigan City. "Often, the signs of a teen's depression are recognized during their annual exam and the conversation can start on the right foot."

Dr. Walker explained that when she asks questions regarding their developmental milestones, including school performance, extracurricular activities and overall goals, she may get some answers that raise concerns on the topic of depression.

"If a teen tells me that they don't have friends, an interest in anything or don't know what to do, then of course that's going to make me ask more questions and bring the conversation to the parents," Dr. Walker said. "Even so, the most important thing is to always have open communication at home. Kids and teens should feel free to come and confidently talk to their open-minded parents about their frustrations."

Dr. Walker also explained that if the parents don't have the answers, it's crucial to seek out a professional for help.

Since some teens may initially feel hesitant about visiting a psychiatrist or counselor, you could encourage your child to seek mental health support by first talking with their primary care provider. Your teen's pediatrician can offer an initial mental health evaluation and help guide them toward additional support.

When To Get Help For Your Teen's Depression

If your teen shows signs of depression nearly every day for at least two weeks, get professional help. Visit your child's pediatrician to discuss your concerns or make an appointment to talk with our behavioral health specialists. Left untreated, depression can lead to self-harm or even suicide.

If you are facing an immediate mental health crisis, reach out to the free, 24-hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.

If you're concerned your teen may be struggling with depression, don't put off getting help. Talk to your teen's pediatrician today to learn about ways to support their mental health.