Depression isn’t just a mental health problem only seen in adults. Teens can experience it, as well. As a parent, it’s important to recognize the signs of depression so that you can get your son or daughter the appropriate treatment if necessary. Here are five common signs of depression in teens.
Sudden Changes in Mood
Teens who experience depression sometimes showcase feelings of anger and frustration over even the smallest matters. You may also notice that your teen is experiencing sudden crying spells for no apparent reason.
Withdrawal From Social Activities
If your teen is losing interest in things that were once enjoyable, he or she may be suffering from depression. Withdrawing from friends and other antisocial tendencies can also be telltale signs of depression that merit adolescent therapy in St. Paul.
Lack of Self-Esteem
Depression is known to diminish self-esteem, which could make your teen more self-conscious of his or her actions. Your teen may start to feel worthless and lose all sense of confidence if the depression continues to worsen to a more advanced state.
Lack of Energy
Chronic fatigue or an overall lack of energy or motivation could mean that your teen is suffering from depression. This display of lethargy may be especially noticeable on the weekends or any other days that your teen has off from school and other activities.
Talk of Death or Suicide
If your teen starts to talk a lot about death or suicide, mental health counseling should be sought immediately. Even if your teen doesn’t express wishing death on themselves, any fascination with death that your teen exhibits could be a sign that depression or other underlying mental health issues are present.
Depression is a serious matter, and your teen’s mental and physical health could be at stake without the proper treatment. If you’re concerned that your teen might be suffering from depression, Options Family & Behavior Services, Inc. provides highly attentive teen and adolescent therapy in St. Paul.
