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It's not unusual for young people to experience "the blues" or feel "down in the dumps" occasionally. Adolescence is always an unsettling time, with the many physical, emotional, psychological and social changes that accompany this stage of life.

Unrealistic academic, social, or family expectations can create a strong sense of rejection and can lead to deep disappointment. When things go wrong at school or at home, teens often overreact. Many young people feel that life is not fair or that things "never go their way." They feel "stressed out" and confused. To make matters worse, teens are bombarded by conflicting messages from parents, friends and society. Today's teens see more of what life has to offer - both good and bad - on television, at school, in magazines and on the Internet. They are also forced to learn about the threat of AIDS, even if they are not sexually active or using drugs.

Teens need adult guidance more than ever to understand all the emotional and physical changes they are experiencing. When teens' moods disrupt their ability to function on a day-to-day basis, it may indicate a serious emotional or mental disorder that needs attention - adolescent depression. Parents or caregivers must take action.

Dealing With Adolescent Pressures

When teens feel down, there are ways they can cope with these feelings to avoid serious depression. All of these suggestions help develop a sense of acceptance and belonging that is so important to adolescents.

Try to make new friends. Healthy relationships with peers are central to teens' self-esteem and provide an important social outlet.

Participate in sports, job, school activities or hobbies. Staying busy helps teens focus on positive activities rather than negative feelings or behaviors.

Join organizations that offer programs for young people. Special programs geared to the needs of adolescents help develop additional interests.

Ask a trusted adult for help. When problems are too much to handle alone, teens should not be afraid to ask for help.

But sometimes, despite everyone's best efforts, teens become depressed. Many factors can contribute to depression. Studies show that some depressed people have too much or too little of certain brain chemicals. Also, a family history of depression may increase the risk for developing depression. Other factors that can contribute to depression are difficult life events (such as death or divorce), side-effects from some medications and negative thought patterns.

Recognizing Adolescent Depression

Adolescent depression is increasing at an alarming rate. Recent surveys indicate that as many as one in five teens suffers from clinical depression. This is a serious problem that calls for prompt, appropriate treatment. Depression can take several forms, including bipolar disorder (formally called manic-depression), which is a condition that alternates between periods of euphoria and depression.

Depression can be difficult to diagnose in teens because adults may expect teens to act moody. Also, adolescents do not always understand or express their feelings very well. They may not be aware of the symptoms of depression and may not seek help.

These symptoms may indicate depression, particularly when they last for more than two weeks:

Teens may experiment with drugs or alcohol or become sexually promiscuous to avoid feelings of depression. Teens also may express their depression through hostile, aggressive, risk-taking behavior. But such behaviors only lead to new problems, deeper levels of depression and destroyed relationships with friends, family, law enforcement or school officials.

Treating Adolescent Depression
It is extremely important that depressed teens receive prompt, professional treatment.
Depression is serious and, if left untreated, can worsen to the point of becoming life-threatening. If depressed teens refuse treatment, it may be necessary for family members or other concerned adults to seek professional advice.

Therapy can help teens understand why they are depressed and learn how to cope with stressful situations. Depending on the situation, treatment may consist of individual, group or family counseling. Medications that can be prescribed by a psychiatrist may be necessary to help teens feel better.

Some of the most common and effective ways to treat depression in adolescents are:

Psychotherapy provides teens an opportunity to explore events and feelings that are painful or troubling to them. Psychotherapy also teaches them coping skills.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps teens change negative patterns of thinking and behaving.

Interpersonal therapy focuses on how to develop healthier relationships at home and at school.

Medication relieves some symptoms of depression and is often prescribed along with therapy.

When depressed adolescents recognize the need for help, they have taken a major step toward recovery. However, remember that few adolescents seek help on their own. They may need encouragement from their friends and support from concerned adults to seek help and follow treatment recommendations.

Facing the Danger Of Teen Suicide

Sometimes teens feel so depressed that they consider ending their lives. Each year, almost 5,000 young people, ages 15 to 24, kill themselves. The rate of suicide for this age group has nearly tripled since 1960, making it the third leading cause of death in adolescents and the second leading cause of death among college-age youth.

Studies show that suicide attempts among young people may be based on long-standing problems triggered by a specific event. Suicidal adolescents may view a temporary situation as a permanent condition. Feelings of anger and resentment combined with exaggerated guilt can lead to impulsive, self-destructive acts.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Four out of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warnings. Pay attention to these warning signs:

Suicide threats, direct and indirect

Poems, essays and drawings that refer to death

Dramatic change in personality or appearance

Irrational, bizarre behavior

Overwhelming sense of guilt, shame or rejection

Changed eating or sleeping patterns

Severe drop in school performance

REMEMBER!!! These warning signs should be taken seriously. Obtain help immediately. Caring and support can save a young life.

Helping Suicidal Teens

Offer help and listen. Encourage depressed teens to talk about their feelings. Listen, don't lecture.

Trust your instincts. If it seems that the situation may be serious, seek prompt help. Break a confidence if necessary, in order to save a life.

Pay attention to talk about suicide. Ask direct questions and don't be afraid of frank discussions. Silence is deadly!

Seek professional help. It is essential to seek expert advice from a mental health professional who has experience helping depressed teens. Also, alert key adults in the teen's life - family, friends and teachers.

Looking To The Future

When adolescents are depressed, they have a tough time believing that their outlook can improve. But professional treatment can have a dramatic impact on their lives. It can put them back on track and bring them hope for the future.
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
Other Resources

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It's not unusual for young people to experience "the blues" or feel "down in the dumps" occasionally. Adolescence is always an unsettling time, with the many physical, emotional, psychological and social changes that accompany this stage of life. Unrealistic academic, social, or family expectations can create a strong sense of rejection and can lead to deep disappointment.

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Quotes ( it's not unusual..)
"Each year, almost 5,000 young people, ages 15 to 24, kill themselves. The rate of suicide for this age group has nearly tripled since 1960, making it the third leading cause of death in adolescents and the second leading cause of death among college-age youth."
"When adolescents are depressed, they have a tough time believing that their outlook can improve. But professional treatment can have a dramatic impact on their lives. It can put them back on track and bring them hope for the future."
"Depression can be difficult to diagnose in teens because adults may expect teens to act moody. Also, adolescents do not always understand or express their feelings very well. They may not be aware of the symptoms of depression and may not seek help."

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My thoughts (it's not unusual...)
that not enough people pay close attention to there teens that they don't realize how long they have been down or they just think they are just being normal teens. I have never really thought about how parents feel about this because they think they are just being normal teens but in realty they are depression and they didn't get them help. And some times it can lead them to being so sad that they end their life. It is weird to think about how many people end their life and nobody is saying anything or trying to get more awareness out their and the main cause is  depression. But it is also that teens don't know the signs either so they don't try and get help.

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Depression Striking More Young People Than Ever - Depression: Depression & Related Conditions

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People with major depression are nearly 30 percent less healthy, on average, than those without depression. Eighty-five percent of people with major depression have one or more other serious chronic health conditions, and nearly 30 percent have four or more other health conditions, according to the report authors.

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MY thoughts (depression striking)
depression has gone up so much because of electrons and social media and video games. That why it's so hight in the teens because we use those the most and we try to be like everyone else which can cause has to have lose confident in are selfs. Do people think about what they say on the internet and how it might effect the person that the are saying it to. It makes me feel sad and scared for all the other generation when technology is even bigger. How many teens will have depression and nobody even know about it. Eventually people are going to have start paying attention because at the rate we are going it's only going to get worse. People need to be taught about this and parents need to be able to see the signs because 4 out 5 teens show their signs of depression. Most people can't afford how much profession help cost so that one reason not very many people get help.

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Polaris Teen Center: Premier Adolescent Treatment Center in Los Angeles

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If you are a parent of a teenager who is currently suffering from depression, it can be very difficult to know what to do or where to turn. Even though you may offer your teenager unconditional love and support, overcoming depression may require resources that are simply unable to provide on your own. However, though addressing depression in teenagers can be incredibly difficult, there are plenty of solutions well within reach.

The first step to effectively addressing the presence of depression in teenager is addressing that an issue actually exists. Many parents make the mistake of assuming that their teenagers will bring the topic up on their own. Though this would certainly make things much easier, most depressed teenagers will deny that there is anything wrong for an extensive period of time. Addressing teenage depression will usually require a much more nuanced approach.

Depending on the nature of the relationship you have with your teenager, there are numerous different techniques you can use to bring up the topic of depression. Some teens will prefer to talk with their parents one-on-one and others would do much better in a therapeutic or group setting. Regardless, the most important things you can do as a parent are monitor for the signs of teenage depression and create an environment of unconditional love and care. Despite the fact that the road to a full recovery may take months or even more, there is still a light at the end of the tunnel. For the sake of both you and your teenager, you should never lose hope that things can get better.

What are the most common signs of teenage depression?

According to some studies, as many as 20 percent of all people will experience depression to some degree before they reach adulthood. When compared to most other mental health conditions, depression is statistically quite common. However, the degrees to which one individual experiences or suffers from depression can be substantially different than someone else who is diagnosed with the exact same mental health condition.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. A major depressive episode is defined as:

A period of two weeks or longer during which there is either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure, and at least four other symptoms that reflect a change in functioning, such as problems with sleep, eating, energy, concentration, and self-image.

Generally, the most commonly accepted definition of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)- which is the condition that the colloquial term "depression" generally refers to-is:

A period of two weeks or longer during which there is either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure, and at least four other symptoms that reflect a change in functioning, such as problems with sleep, eating, energy, concentration, and self-image.

Depression is something that can present itself in teenagers in a variety of different ways. While some teenagers will begin to indulge themselves in periods of self-loathing, others will do all that they can in order to conceal what they are experiencing from those around them. But, generally speaking, there are still a number of common signs of depression that parents can be actively monitoring for.

Sudden loss of interest in things that your teen once found interesting

Patterns of self-harm, suicide ideation, and other destructive behaviors

Difficulties with school, maintaining a job, and creating friendships

Consistently low mood, low self-esteem, and low motivation

Negative changes in behaviors, beliefs, and attitudes once held prior to puberty

If, after reading this list, you believe that your teenager may be suffering from depression, it is very important that you seek professional help. Even if a psychologist ultimately determines that they are not clinically depressed, they may be experiencing something else in their life that needs to be addressed.

What are the most common causes of teenage depression?

There are many different causes of teenage depression. Because the teenage years are characterized by such intense social, biological, emotional, and even sexual changes, it can often by quite difficult to point to a single cause of an individual's depression. However, in order to try to effectively address these symptoms of depression, trying to generally understand the root cause of a given individual's negative state of being can still be quite beneficial.

These are just a few of the common causes of teenage depression as described by the medical community:

Biological changes such as neurotransmitter abnormalities, impaired nerve functions, and other related issues

Hormonal issues and other causes of chemical imbalances (making it biologically more difficult to feel happy or motivated)

Childhood trauma such as emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, the loss of a loved one, or other traumatic experiences

Issues associated with low self-esteem including bullying, difficulties with school, negative relationships, obesity, and body dysmorphia

Being a gender or sexual minority in an unaccepting or harmful environment

Numerous other possible causes

If you believe your teenager has been exposed to one or more of the contributing factors mentioned above, then being mindful of the possibility of depression is even more important. Many parents internalize the presence of depression and blame the presence of their teen's condition entirely on themselves. However, as can be seen by the numerous examples listed above, the causes of depression are usually much more complex.

What other conditions are commonly associated with teenage depression?

Depression is a condition that may stand alone, but-statistically speaking-there are many other mental health conditions that are strongly correlated with depression. Whether these conditions cause depression or are caused by depression can often be quite unclear. Teenagers who are suffering from multiple mental health issues at once may need specialized treatment options in order to make a full recovery.

These are a few of the mental health conditions that are most commonly associated with depression:

Anxiety and bipolar disorder

Alcohol, drug, and other substance abuse disorders

Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, body dysmorphia, and other eating disorders

The presence of debilitating physical, learning, or general mental disabilities

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Other common mental health issues

Because the underlying causes of depression are often quite complex, psychologists have been placing an increased emphasis on the approach to treatment known as dual diagnosis. With dual diagnosis, teen psychologists make a deliberate effort to comprehensively address multiple mental health conditions simultaneously rather than focusing on them one at a time. Organizations such as Polaris have found that utilizing a holistic approach to mental health treatment can often produce the best results.

What are some of the best teen depression treatment options available?

Because depression is so statistically common among teenagers (affecting roughly 1 in 5 at some point in their life), treating depression has been a central focus of teen psychology for decades. Your teenager is entirely unique. In order to make sure they get the best treatment outcomes available, it is important to make sure that you work with a treatment center capable of providing customized solutions.

If your teenager is severely depressed, then spending some time at a Residential Treatment Center (RTC) may be what is needed for them to fully recover. RTCs such as Polaris will have a trained staff on hand that understands the many nuances involved in treating depression. Additionally, your teen can be removed from some of the underlying causes of their current condition and become able to make recovery their foremost priority.

Even if your depressed teenager does not need to be admitted overnight to an RTC, there are still many other treatment modalities available. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an approach to treatment that focuses on identifying the causes of negative patterns of thinking and creating new structures of thought that are much more positive. CBT is an approach to mental healthcare that has been developed for decades and is currently employed by teen psychologists all around the world.

Other productive treatment methods include individual therapy, group therapy, experiential treatment (art, music, nature, poetry, etc.), and numerous others. These treatment modalities will frequently be combined and adjusted in accordance with the specific needs of your teenager.

A Source of Perpetual Hope

If you are the parent of a teenager who is suffering from depression, it can often be quite tempting to give up hope. However, no matter how difficult things may seem in the status quo, there are many different resources available to help your teen overcome their current condition

Polaris is a twelve-bed residential treatment center for teens in Los Angeles with a staff that is trained to address a variety of mental health conditions. We offer families customized care plans to address their specific needs. If your teen is struggling with depression give us a call. Contact Polaris Teen Center today at (844) 836-0222 to learn more.

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Talking About the Teen Depression Epidemic

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If you are a parent of a teenager who is currently suffering from depression , it can be very difficult to know what to do or where to turn. Even though you may offer your teenager unconditional love and support, overcoming depression may require resources that are simply unable to provide on your own.

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My thoughts (talking about the)
Telling parents that you might not be able to help your child by yourself and will need help because no matter how much love and attention they might need more help then that. It shows that so many people deal with depression and don't get help. Depression is becoming one of the most common mental health disorder in teens. It has gone up 20% in just teens form 1999.

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Quotes (talking about the)
"Addressing teenage depression will usually require a much more nuanced approach."
"Even though you may offer your teenager unconditional love and support, overcoming depression may require resources that are simply unable to provide on your own. However, though addressing depression in teenagers can be incredibly difficult, there are plenty of solutions well within reach."
"A period of two weeks or longer during which there is either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure, and at least four other symptoms that reflect a change in functioning, such as problems with sleep, eating, energy, concentration, and self-image."

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It's common for a teenager to feel down. With changing hormones, school cliques, and peer pressure, being a teen isn't always easy. Sometimes it's more than relationship problems or homework that affect a teen's mood. Many teens struggle with depression, and very few seek help. This can evolve into larger, more dangerous problems down the line such as criminal actions, further mental health issues, and even suicide. The statistics surrounding teen depression are staggering, but identifying warning signs can give you the tools to communicate with your teenager and find help if they are depressed.

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Teen Depression in America: Troubling Statistics and Facts

What is frequently written off as normal teenage angst may really be teen depression, and if left untreated could lead to more serious conditions with antisocial behaviors. Diagnosing depression in teens is complicated by the physical changes in this stage of development, yet there are warning signs and options for help. Below you will find a long list of eye-opening teen depression statistics covering prevalence, symptoms, warning signs of teen depression, treatment options, recovery rates and more.

Teen Depression Statistics

Most Common Types of Teen Depression

1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Someone with MDD will experience episodes of intense depression (lasting weeks to years), separated by periods of relatively stable moods. MDD can make it difficult to work, study, sleep, eat, and enjoy friends or activities.

2. Dysthymic Disorder
Teens with Dysthymia experience depressive episodes that are less intense than in MDD but are long-lasting-at least one year or longer.

3. Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression)
Bipolar disorder is characterized by cycling mood changes ranging from extreme emotional highs to extreme lows-major depression to mania with high energy. This is a serious condition that can cause sleeplessness, hallucinations, psychosis, grandiose delusions, or paranoid rage. Bipolar disorder sometimes has a genetic component and can run in families.

4. Adjustment Disorder
Adjustment disorder is a short-term condition that people find themselves in when they struggle coping with, or adjusting to, a particular source of stress such as, divorce or death of a loved one.

Causes of Teen Depression

Depression in teens can stem from a variety of reasons:

1. Academic stress

2. Peer pressure

3. Romantic problems

4. Traumatic events

5. Divorcing parents

6. Genetic factors

7. Family financial struggles

8. Physical/emotional neglect

(Information courtesy of http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml#part2)

How Does Depression Affect Teen Life?

Depression can lead to other problems as well.

30% of teens suffering from depression also develop substance abuse problems

15% of teens suffering with teen depression eventually develop bipolar disorder

Up to 10% of teens have conduct disorder as a result of depression

Conduct disorder is a range of antisocial behaviors towards others.

6%-10% of boys have conduct disorder

2%-9% of girls have conduct disorder

Conduct disorder can lead to:

Aggression with people and animals

Destruction of property

Deceitfulness or theft

Serious violations of rules

Depression can also cause teens to:

Create family conflicts

Have problems at school

Run away

Become violent

Participate in reckless behavior

Abuse drugs or alcohol

Develop internet addictions

Become suicidal

If Left Untreated, Depression Can Evolve into Other Serious Conditions

Ignoring depression can be dangerous. Unfortunately, 80 percent of teens don't seek help for their depression. Depression can turn into a more serious condition for your teenager if left untreated.

20% with major depressive disorder (MDD) develop psychotic symptoms

15% of teens with depression eventually develop bipolar disorder

66% of teens with major depression also suffer from another mental disorder, such as persistent mild depression, addiction to drugs or alcohol, anxiety, or antisocial behaviors

Teenage Depression and Suicide

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among people ages 15-24.

The rate of suicide in America has tripled over the last 60 years

About 19% of young people contemplate or attempt suicide each year

14%-24% of young and young adults have self-injured at least once

More teens die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease combined

5,400 estimated suicide attempts are made each day by teens in the United States

Signs of Teen Depression

Four out of 5 teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs as to their intentions.

Common warning signs of depression are:

1. Sadness that lasts most of the day

2. Crankiness and irritability

3. Inability to have fun doing things that used to be fun

4. Acting younger than their age

5. Feeling tired all the time

6. Trouble sleeping through the night

7. Changes in appetite

8. Drop in grades

9. Lack of empathy

10. Lack of motivation

11. Low self-esteem

Tips for Talking with Teens

Communicate with your teenager to understand what is going on in their life. Let them know you are there for them no matter what. It's okay if you need some guidance talking to your teen. After all, teenagers don't come with instructions. Here are a few tips for successful communication with your teenager:

1. Offer genuine support

2. Be gentle but persistent with requests

3. Listen without lecturing

4. Validate their feelings

5. Find a depression specialist

6. Stay involved in treatment

7. Provide appropriate medication

8. Encourage physical activity and a balanced diet

9. List to and support your teen

10. Educate your teen on the risks or drug and alcohol abuse

11. Educate yourself about depression

Options for Help

Only 1 in 5 depressed teens receive help. There are many options available for teens facing mental health issues. Rawhide Boys Ranch is one of them.

Rawhide offers various programs for troubled and at-risk youth:

1. Outpatient counseling
Our therapists use a blend of therapeutic styles and approaches to address a variety of personal and family concerns. Open to girls, boys, parents, couples, individuals.

2. Residential treatment
A group home that provides a family living structure, treatment, and therapy for youth struggling with behavioral issues and disorders.

3. Adventure camp
An adventure-based therapy program for the purpose of therapeutic intervention. Youth enjoy canoeing, camping, cooking, hiking, fishing, and journaling.

4. Cognitive behavior therapy
Cognitive behavior therapy helps teens identify distressing thoughts and corrects negative ways of thinking.

Residential Treatment Success

Residential treatment has been very successful for individuals battling depression.

80% of adolescents with depression improve during residential treatment

72%-97% of parents reported a reduction in internalizing problems from admission to discharge after residential treatment

Don't let depression affect your teenager. Open a healthy line of communication with your teenager and find out the problems they are facing and what is going on in their life. If your teenager is struggling with depression, there is help. Your teenager does not have to battle depression on their own.

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Teen Depression: Troubling Statistics and Trends

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It's common for a teenager to feel down. With changing hormones, school cliques, and peer pressure, being a teen isn't always easy. Sometimes it's more than relationship problems or homework that affect a teen's mood. Many teens struggle with depression, and very few seek help.

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Quotes ( depression striking)
"rates increased 63 percent among teens and 47 percent among millennials."
"Increased use of electronics, video games more commonly in boys and social media/texting more commonly in girls, can lead to increased conflict both within the home and with peers."
"In preliminary literature, high users of social media have been linked with higher rates of social isolation than low users," Haywood said
"People with major depression also use health care services more than those without a depression diagnosis, resulting in significantly higher health care spending -- about $10,673 compared to $4,283."

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my thoughts on this is it open your mind to how many people have depression and how many people end up ending their life because of it. It makes me wonder how many people we know that might have depression and not even know about it. There are places that will help but when people have depression they don't tell anybody so they don't get help.

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"What is frequently written off as normal teenage angst may really be teen depression, and if left untreated could lead to more serious conditions with antisocial behaviors."
"Open a healthy line of communication with your teenager and find out the problems they are facing and what is going on in their life."

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Psycom.net - Mental Health Treatment Resource Since 1986

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According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, approximately one out of five adolescents has a diagnosable mental health disorder, and nearly one-third show symptoms of depression.

Symptoms of depression in adolescents aren't always easy to identify because they often appear as normal adolescent behavior. Early warning signs are likely to include: irritability, fatigue, changes in sleep patterns, changes in eating patterns, social withdrawal, and/or anger.

A study on trends in depression among adolescents and young adults showed a 37 percent increase in adolescent reports of major depressive episodes between 2005 and 2014. Given the rise in adolescent depression, it's important for parents, caregivers, and educators to understand the symptoms of adolescent depression and how to help.

Symptoms of Teen Depression

The defining feature of a major depressive episode is a period of at least two weeks during which there is either depressed mood or loss of interest in nearly all activities. In adolescents, the mood may be irritable. The two-week period represents a change in functioning for the teen.

In addition to experiencing depressed or irritable mood or loss of interest or pleasure, four other symptoms must be present:

Anger or hostility

Changes in eating or sleeping habits

Fatigue or lack of energy

Hopelessness

Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

Poor school performance

Lack of motivation

Difficulty concentrating

Tearfulness or frequent crying

Restlessness

Agitation

Unexplained aches or pains

Thoughts of death or suicide (with or without a plan)

Suicide Warning Signs in Teens

The possibility of suicide exists at all times during a major depressive episode.

The latest statistics from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) show that among students in grades 9-12 in the United States, 17% seriously considered attempting suicide in the previous 12 months, 13.6% made a plan about how they would commit suicide, 8 percent attempted suicide one or more times, and 2.7% made an attempt that resulted in poisoning, overdose, or an injury that required medical attention. Current data were collected in 2013.

Watch for the following signs of suicidal ideation among teens:

Talking about committing suicide

Writing poems or stories about suicide

Giving away prized possessions

Engaging in reckless behavior

Romanticizing death

Saying goodbye to friends and family members (in person, in notes, or on social media)

Cryptic social media updates that reference death or the end

If you suspect that your teen (or your friend) is suicidal, take action right away. Call 1-800-273-TALK for 24-hour suicide prevention and help through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Treatment of Depression

A complete physical to rule out other medical conditions is always a good first step in you suspect that your teen is struggling with depression.

Psychotherapy: Talk therapy and/or cognitive behavioral therapy are often good initial treatments for mild to moderate cases of depression.

Group therapy: Therapy groups can be effective for teens. Through group work, teens connect with other teens that share and understand their struggles and create support networks beyond their immediate families and close friends.

Medication management: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's) are antidepressant medications that can be beneficial to adolescents diagnosed with major depressive disorder. An adolescent being treated for major depressive disorder should be carefully evaluated by a physician to determine whether or not medication is necessary. Antidepressant medication does come with risks. In 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning about SSRI medications for children and adolescent due to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior.

Article continues below

Provide Support at Home

Depression is a serious condition that requires treatment. Do not take a wait and watch approach if you suspect depression-early intervention is best. In addition to professional treatment, there are some things you can do at home to help your teen.

Focus on listening: You can't fix this for your teen, and lectures won't make depression go away, but active and empathic listening establishes rapport and provides emotional support.

Make 1:1 time a priority: The simple of act of making time to talk each day helps your teen reconnect and seek help instead of internalizing feelings.

Confront social isolation: Lack of motivation might make it difficult for your teen to connect with peers during this time. Encourage your teen to reach out to close friends and engage in activities of interest with other teens.

Prioritize exercise: Regular exercise plays a vital role in improving mental health. Aim for one hour of exercise a day. Offer to try new exercise classes with your teen to make it fun.

Improve nutrition: A healthy, balanced diet helps combat fatigue and feed the brain.

Talk about sleep: Insufficient sleep exacerbates symptoms of depression. Teens need 9-10 hours of sleep every night.

It's important for parents to be open and honest with teens with everything from seeking a diagnosis to making healthy changes at home to seeking professional treatment. Involving your teen in the diagnosis and treatment process helps your teen take control of his or her mental health and learn to prevent or cope with potential relapses.

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Teens and Depression: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Risks

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According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, approximately one out of five adolescents has a diagnosable mental health disorder, and nearly one-third show symptoms of depression. Symptoms of depression in adolescents aren't always easy to identify because they often appear as normal adolescent behavior.

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Moodiness, anger, social withdrawal-these could be signs of depression in your child, but they may just be signs that you have a teenager. What is normal developmental behavior versus signals that your child or teen may be struggling with depression?

Your child may not know what is wrong or how to ask for help. It's important for caregivers to know when and how to intervene. Signs of clinical depression in children are different than the symptoms of depression in adults.

What is depression? A formal diagnosis of depression is defined as having a sad, empty or irritable mood lasting up to at least two weeks. What distinguishes depression from clinical depression is a depressed mood that is accompanied by thoughts or physical symptoms that affect functioning.

Signs of depression in children may include the following:

Sadness that lingers throughout the day.

More irritability and crankiness than normal.

Not taking pleasure out of things they usually enjoy.

Expressions of guilt, low self-esteem.

Tiredness with no apparent reason.

Changes in appetite, eating much more or less.

Trouble sleeping, sleeping too much or too little.

Hopelessness, helplessness.

Suicidal thoughts or attempts at self-harm (seek immediate help).

Teachers and school administrators might comment on some of these signs, as well:

Grouchy, moody, difficulty with peers.

Isolated, withdrawn from family and peers.

May not perform well in school, decline in grades.

Struggling to concentrate when there wasn't a problem with focus before.

Feeling hopeless, like nothing will ever help and everyone is against them.

Regressive behavior, taking steps backward in learning or growth.

Reach out to a doctor if you notice any of these behaviors for two weeks or more in your child.

The Two P's: Persistence and Pervasiveness

Another good way to distinguish between depressed mood and clinical depression is noticing persistence and pervasiveness of these behaviors. Is this persisting over time? And, is this behavior pervasive? This means the mood and behaviors don't just happen in one setting (school, but not home, or vice-versa). Are these moods or behaviors pervasive in most environments, in all social groups, or all situations? Children may be able to rally at times, but if you notice pervasive patterns of behavior that is a warning sign.

It's easy to overlook these signs because people tend to think, "That's just adolescence" or they're going through a phase. Listen to your gut and if you're concerned, seek help.

Red Flags

These statistics on suicide from the CDC illustrate why it is so important to seek help early on for your child:

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for children and teens, ages 10-24.

More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease combined.

Each day in the U.S., there are an average of over 5,000 suicide attempts by young people in grades 7-12.

Four of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs.

Here are three red flags, or clear warning signs that your child may be thinking about suicide:

Making statements about not being around anymore. "You'll miss me when I'm gone."

Saying goodbye and giving away possessions.

Acute behavior changes or shifts, suddenly acting happy or excited.

Conversations About Depression

One of the biggest myths around suicide is that "If we talk about it, he'll be more likely to do it." When in fact, it is exactly the opposite. If your child is depressed, you need to talk about it with him and stay connected. Conversations, connectedness to family and community, along with clinical and medical help, are all factors in protecting individuals from suicidal thoughts and behaviors, according to the CDC.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, even if it feels scary or uncomfortable. The answers you get will be revealing; they will tell you something about your child's state of mind.

Here are some example questions and conversation starters:

"Have you ever thought about doing something to hurt yourself?" Their answer and their reactions to the question itself can help you know how they're feeling.

"Sometimes when people are sad or depressed, they wish something would happen so that people take care of them. Do you ever feel that way?" A child who is depressed may open up and say yes.

Take time to talk and engage with your child, and ask OFTEN, not just once. Remove all distractions, sit down with them, tell them what you've noticed and why you're worried. "I've noticed you're home all the time, you seem angry, and you don't hang out with your friends like you used to. I'm worried about you. Is there something going on?"

Ask open-ended questions and find ways to help normalize your child's feelings. "Sometimes when people are really depressed they want to sleep and just never wake up. Do you ever feel that way?" Starting a conversation this way helps to normalize a child's experience, and makes them feel less like a "freak" or a "crazy person." It helps them to know they're not alone and that you are not afraid to talk about it.

These conversations about depression and suicide are not easy, but they are very necessary.
Try to avoid saying things like:

"I don't understand why you're depressed, everything in your life is great?"

"Why are you acting/feeling this way?" - they may not know why, and you want to talk more about feelings at this stage.

"I think you're depressed and I've made an appointment for you." Try not to assume you know what the problem is or be too anxious to solve it for them.

"When I was your age..." At this stage, it's not about you. Keep it about your child and her feelings.

What you can do at home

Talk to your pediatrician: If you're concerned, talk to your healthcare provider. Ask for a referral from your PCP, health insurance, a friend, a family member.

Ask about cognitive behavioral therapy: CBT is a form of psychotherapy that treats problems and boosts happiness by modifying emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. This kind of therapy gives you and your child a toolbox of coping skills for dealing with negative thoughts and changing behaviors.

Get outside: Encourage exercise and schedule regular activities that your child enjoys.

Reduce stress: Reduce stress and pressure to be good at all things, all the time.

Monitor social media: Research suggests that too much spent time on social media may contribute to depressed feelings. Fear of missing out, constant comparison, and bullying can happen easily online. It may not be the cause of depression, but it could be making an already depressed kid feel worse. So, consider restricting social media time.

Model problem solving: Be a good model for solving problems, and help your child develop problem solving strategies. Here is a great article about the 5-step problem solving method for young children (but it works for anyone!).

Sleep patterns: Sleep is so important to your health at any age. Practice good sleep habits and create a good environment for sleep. Set a wake time and bedtime. Do a little research about healthy sleep habits and model those habits yourself.

Building a feelings vocabulary: We have so many words we can use to help define our feelings and share how we are feeling. The words we use are important for expressing how we feel, beyond just mad, sad or happy. Here's a list of "feelings words" that you can use to help your child explore their feelings.

By reading this article, you've helped educate yourself on the signs and symptoms of depression in children. Your attentiveness and simple willingness to engage your child in a conversation about this difficult topic is a great start. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Families First for further resources or to talk to someone at the crisis & suicide intervention hotline, or just to talk to someone about your parenting struggles. We are here to help.

Sources: MassGeneralHospital, CDC

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Recognizing the Signs of Depression in Your Child | Families First

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Moodiness, anger, social withdrawal-these could be signs of depression in your child, but they may just be signs that you have a teenager. What is normal developmental behavior versus signals that your child or teen may be struggling with depression? Your child may not know what is wrong or how to ask for help.

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Quotes ( according to the U.S)
"show that among students in grades 9-12 in the United States, 17 percent seriously considered attempting suicide in the previous 12 months, 13.6 percent made a plan about how they would commit suicide, 8 percent attempted suicide one or more times, and 2.7 percent made an attempt that resulted in poisoning, overdose, or an injury that required medical attention. Current data was collected in 2013."
"It’s important for parents to be open and honest with teens with everything from seeking a diagnosis to making healthy changes at home to seeking professional treatment."
"The simple of act of making time to talk each day helps your teen reconnect and seek help instead of internalizing feelings."

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My thoughts ( according to the U.S)
It makes me think about how some people gone around and tell nobody about being depression. Some people just need the support at home to get better that involves the parents being able to see the signs of depression or the teen being able to talk about it. It makes me wonder if we would ask people if they knew the signs of depression would they really know and be able to help. It makes me feel sad reading that 9-12 grades 17% of people think about ending their life because of depression.

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Positive Psychology Strategies to Reduce Depression in Teens

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Teenage depression and suicide are contributing factors to one of the most common preventable reasons why children are choosing to take their own lives. Teens kill themselves by the thousands every year, but suicide isn't just something that happens out of the blue. There is always a contributing factor that helps to facilitate the ultimate decision. Most teens with depression are also dealing with alcohol abuse, drug use, and may be suffering from physical or sexual abuse as well.

Statistics on Teenage Depression and Suicide

1. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for the 12-18 age demographic. When the age demographic is expanded to 10-24, suicide becomes the second leading cause of death.
2. Studies show that at least 90% of teens who kill themselves have some type of mental health problem.
3. The number of teens who thought about killing themselves at the time of their worst or most recent episode of major depressive disorder: 1.8 million.
4. States in the US spend nearly $1 billion annually on medical costs associated with completed suicides and suicide attempts by youth up to 20 years of age.
5. 14%. That's the percentage of teens who suffered at least one episode of depression within the last 12 months.
6. More teens die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease combined.
7. The number of suicide attempts that are estimated to happen in the United States every day by teens: 5,400.
8. 4 of 5 teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs as to their intentions.
9. About 11% of adolescents have an ongoing depressive disorder by age 18.
10. Depressed teens with coexisting disorders such as substance abuse problems are less likely to respond to treatment for depression.
11. The issue that teens face with treatment for depression is that many anti-depressants also have a side effect that may contribute to an increased level of suicidal thoughts.
12. The top 3 methods used in suicides of young people include firearms [45%], suffocation [40%], and poisoning [8%].
13. Of the reported suicides in the 10 to 24 age group, 81% of the deaths were males and 19% were females.
14. Girls are more likely to report failed suicide attempts than boys.
15. Native American/Alaskan Native/First Nations youth have the highest rates of suicide-related fatalities.
16. Hispanic teens are more likely to report suicide attempts than any other racial or ethnic demographics.
17. 16% of high school students have reported that they have seriously contemplated committing suicide.
18. Teens who self-identify with the LGBTQI demographic are have suicide risks that are 4x higher than the general teen population.
19. Only 13% of teens actually create a plan for their suicide before they actually attempt one.
20. 157,000. That's the number of teens who receive medical care every year because of self-inflicted injuries.

Increasing Risk and Symptoms

Another increasing form of depression that is occurring amongst teens today is the issue of their own sexual identity. The world got to see this with the January 2015 suicide of Leelah Alcorn, a transgender teen who felt rejected by her parents. She felt like they were trying to force her into conservative Christian values and would only take her to therapists that essentially told her that she needed to "get right" with God - or prescribe medication. She felt unloved, it spiraled into depression, and she eventually stepped in front of a speeding semi-truck.

When given enough time, many teens can pull themselves away from the edge and be able to right the ship. The only problem is that there generally isn't enough time. Most teens do not spend a long time planning how they're going to commit suicide. There is generally one minor event that becomes the catalyst for the decision to be made. A bad grade, a failure in sports, or the rejection of a parent can cause the flow of stress to flood the mind and overwhelm the teen.

This is why it is so important to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression and/or suicidal thoughts in teens today. Teens who feel worthless, hopeless, or guilty are at a higher risk of committing suicide. Feeling sad, having changes in eating habits, or just getting upset easily can all increase a teen's risk.

Suffering and Prevention

A complete suicide is an action that can only be taken once. Teens that are suffering from depression and choose to commit suicide are going all-in. We must as a community decide to go all-in and support them in the best ways that we can.

There's always a lot of blame to be cast about after a suicide, as has been the case after Alcorn's very public and successful suicide. It's easy to blame a teen's parents for failure. Maybe there are bullies, or disputes with friends, or a break-up with a long-term love interest. The very real fact that we have right here, right now, is that we are all to blame for teen suicides. We can do more. We can be better.

The stakes are too high. We cannot fail. That's why knowing the statistics and then acting on this information is so important. Too many Leelah Alcorns are out there in the world today, struggling in silence. They need to know that we've got their backs.

It begins by recognizing the signs and symptoms of depression and then doing more than just encouraging teens to seek out help. We must go with them to get the help, provide supports for their parents, and be non-judgmental resources that everyone can use. Up to 80% of teens who are thinking about suicide right now won't take any actions if they are given enough time to sort through their difficult feelings, emotions, and co-existing conditions.

We must be able to give them that time. If we do not, then there are going to be another 4,000+ teen suicides every year that will leave parents doing thing unthinkable: outliving their child.

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20 Important Teenage Depression and Suicide Statistics - HRF

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Teenage depression and suicide are contributing factors to one of the most common preventable reasons why children are choosing to take their own lives. Teens kill themselves by the thousands every year, but suicide isn't just something that happens out of the blue. There is always a contributing factor that helps to facilitate the ultimate ...

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Direct quotes:
"Teens kill themselves by the thousands every year, but suicide isn’t just something that happens out of the blue. There is always a contributing factor that helps to facilitate the ultimate decision."
"Suicide is the third leading cause of death for the 12-18 age demographic. When the age demographic is expanded to 10-24, suicide becomes the second leading cause of death."

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After listening to the video and reading the article I learned that there so many teenagers going through this and mist of them end up killing themselves. It opened my eyes to some causes and reasons. it made me think about how the parents feel if they lose their there kid or when they learn that their child has depression. It makes me feel sad because I think about how the teen showed the sign but nobody notice. It makes you wonder about do you know someone with depressions and could you help them.

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My thoughts (positive psychology)
This video talks about every thing the cause and some new solutions. My feel while listing to this is shocked. It makes me think about that not everyone does the same thing when they have depression everyone shows it in their own way and do things differently. Solutions he brought up is strength to get them to open up and find the good in there self. It makes me wonder how people deal with depression and do nothing about it. Try and give thanks to children so they can feel like someone cares and is glad that they are their. People need to have hope and goals to them on tract. Teenagers need someone standing next to them believing in them to help them. These solutions are just suggested that might work.

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Quotes ( positive psychology
"by 2020 depression will be the biggest cost of death."
"only 2/3 of people don't know what their strength is."
"One in 1/5 (17%) people use there strength every day which means 80% of the world isn't use there strength. which means 80% of us aren't feeling strong."

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What Is Depression? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

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Learn how to recognize the warning signs and symptoms of clinical depression and what to do to treat it with and without medication.

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Quotes ( coping with depression)
"United States, affecting more than 16 million men and women (almost 6.7 percent of the adult population) and 3.1 million adolescents."
"Additionally, 3.1 million adolescents — 19.4 percent of girls and 6.4 percent of boys — have experienced major depression. The increase in depression rates among adolescents has outpaced all other age groups."

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My thoughts (recognizing the signs)
There are many reason why teens may be depression but for you to be able to help you have to learn about it and see the signs. Most of the time the signs are there but nobody sees them. The more you learn about the more you think about how you can help someone now knowing what the signs are. It makes me wonder if someone could go been saved for ending there life if someone saw there signs. Makes me sad that people are to scared to ask if they are ok and listen to them and see if they need help.

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Quotes ( recognizing the signs)
"Don't be afraid to ask questions, even if it feels scary or uncomfortable. The answers you get will be revealing; they will tell you something about your child's state of mind."
"More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke pneumonia, influenza, and chronic lung disease combined."
"It's easy to overlook these signs because people tend to think, "That's just adolescence" or they're going through a phase. Listen to your gut and if you're concerned, seek help."

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My thoughts ( coping with depression)
More coming in girls then boys . Less then 10% of people the have depression will get the help they need. 13% of people ages of 12 and 18 take antidepressants. It makes me think about how so many people take medicine for depression but still so many people end there lives. It makes me wonder about why do people take the medicine if it doesn't end up helping them. It makes me feel scared for how many people have depression and do nothing about it makes me wonder will the problem get worse in a few years or get better and if get worse how many people will be able to help because they won't know the signs.

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Graybiel, Paul Personal Interview. February 18 2019.