What Does Teenage Depression Feel Like?

Today, more and more teenagers are suffering from depression. It is estimated that, at any time, between 10-15% of teens encounter some level of depression. Many parents have teens that struggle with depression, and if you are one of them, you know it can be challenging. Teenage depression comes in many different forms, and there isn’t just one root cause of it. The severity of depression also depends on biological, psychological, and/or environmental risk factors. This becomes particularly difficult if you have never dealt with depression in adolescence, as it is near impossible for you to relate to what he or she is experiencing. However, with education, you can increase your ability to understand what your teen is going through and, thus, provide more support.

What is teenage depression?

Depression is a serious mental illness that causes individuals to feel persistently sad, down, unhappy, and even hopeless. Teenage depression, in general, is often experienced in a fairly similar way to that of depression in adults. It is crucial to identify major depressive disorder in teens, with guidelines recommending screening for ages 12 to 18. Yet, differences tend to lie in the level of intensity of emotions and the resulting behaviors.

General symptoms and effects of depression in teens

Depression symptoms can look different from one teenager to the next.  But there are some general symptoms that tend to present across the board, including:

• Low energy: depression impacts energy levels, so if your teen struggles with depression, you may notice increased lethargy, sluggishness, or exhaustion.
• Irritability: frequent irritability and/or sudden anger outbursts are common in teens who suffer from depression
• Physical changes: you may also notice physical changes in your depressed teen. Often, because of the associated feelings of guilt and/or worthlessness, changes in posture will arise. Your teen may hold his or her head down, avert eye contact, and walk with slumped shoulders.
• Changes in sleep patterns: depression usually has an impact on teens sleep habits. This could range from increased difficulty falling or staying asleep, to sleeping much more than usual.
• Loss of interest: if you notice your teen becoming less engaged in previously enjoyed activities, this could be a sign he or she is depressed.
• Urges to isolate: depression can affect one’s desire to be social and interact with others. If your teen is depressed, you may notice a decreased interest in engaging with friends or family.

What your teen may be experiencing and how to help

Although being able to spot the symptoms of depression in your teen is important, it does not mean he or she will be open to discussing it with you. In order to provide the best support for your child (and encourage open communication), understanding what he or she is truly going through is key. Teens may also experience an anxiety disorder, which can complicate or accompany major depression, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial.

Hopelessness

Many teens are excited about the future and eager to progress to the next stage of life and move into adulthood. If your teen is struggling with depression, thinking about the future most likely brings up feelings of hopelessness and despair. A depressed teen’s outlook is often dampened, and motivation to make plans or move forward in life is often stunted. In cases of severe depression, these feelings can be so intense that they may require hospital care or an intensive outpatient program.

Worthlessness/Guilt

Feelings of worthlessness and/or guilt are common emotional responses for depressed teens. Frequently, these feelings are associated with the low self-esteem inherent to depression. Teens with depression regularly believe they are in some way defective, thus spurring the worthlessness and guilt. The complexity of diagnosing depression in teens is further compounded by conditions like bipolar disorder, which alternates between periods of euphoria and depression.

Confusion

Depression can be confusing to teenagers, as one moment, they might feel fine, and the next, a sudden wave of extreme sadness or hopelessness shows up. At other times, your teen may feel nothing at all, like a general numbness. Because of the unpredictability of moods with this mental illness, it is likely your teen has periods of feeling anxious, unsettled, and confused. These symptoms can be part of broader mental health problems, which may include anxiety disorders and substance abuse.

Seeking Help from a Mental Health Professional

If you suspect that your teenager is struggling with depression, it is essential to seek help from a mental health professional. A mental health professional can provide a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan tailored to your teenager’s needs.

When seeking help, it is crucial to find a mental health professional who has experience working with adolescents and depression. You can ask your primary care physician for a referral or search online for mental health professionals in your area.

During the initial consultation, the mental health professional will assess your teenager’s symptoms, medical history, and family dynamics. They may use standardized questionnaires and interviews to determine the severity of the depression and develop a treatment plan.

Coping Mechanisms and Self-Care

Coping mechanisms and self-care are essential for managing depression and promoting overall mental health. Here are some strategies that can help:

• Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Encourage your teenager to engage in physical activities they enjoy, such as sports, dance, or yoga.
• Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices such as meditation and deep breathing can help reduce stress and anxiety. You can find mindfulness exercises online or through mobile apps.
• Social support: Social support from family, friends, and peers is crucial for managing depression. Encourage your teenager to connect with friends and family members who can provide emotional support.
• Hobbies: Engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy and fulfillment can help reduce symptoms of depression. Encourage your teenager to explore their interests and passions.
• Sleep hygiene: Establishing a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and electronics before bedtime, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can help improve sleep quality.

Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health

Breaking the stigma of mental health is essential for promoting mental health awareness and encouraging individuals to seek help. Here are some ways to break the stigma:

• Education: Educate yourself and others about mental health conditions, their symptoms, and treatment options.
• Open conversation: Encourage open and honest conversations about mental health. Share your own experiences and listen to others without judgment.
• Reduce stigma language: Avoid using language that perpetuates stigma, such as “crazy” or “weak.” Instead, use respectful and person-first language, such as “person with depression.”
• Support mental health initiatives: Support mental health initiatives and organizations that promote mental health awareness and provide resources for individuals struggling with mental health conditions.

By understanding adolescent depression, seeking help from a mental health professional, practicing coping mechanisms and self-care, and breaking the stigma of mental health, we can promote mental health awareness and support individuals struggling with depression.

If you suspect your teen is suffering from depression and needs help, contact the experts at Polaris Teen Center at 1-844-836-0222.

Polaris Teen Center

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Polaris Teen Center is a residential treatment facility for teens and adolescents suffering from severe mental health disorders. Our highly accredited facility is fully licensed and certified in Trauma Informed Care and is a part of the Behavioral Health Association of Providers (formerly AATA).

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