Did you know that one in five teenagers is affected by depression? Recent studies show 20% of teens report feeling depressed, and up to half are never diagnosed. If left untreated, this disorder can have serious consequences. Parents need to learn how to spot symptoms of depression. At The Forum, we empower you to take the right steps and help your teen recover.
Depression Symptoms in Teens
Depression can be a difficult disorder to recognize, especially in teenagers. The signs of depression are often confused with typical teenage angst and rebellion. Typical symptoms include:
- Sudden changes in mood or behavior
- Expressions of worthlessness
- Apathy and loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Feelings of guilt or helplessness
- Lack of motivation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased irritability and restlessness
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Thoughts of death or suicide
If you see any of these signs in your teen, it’s important to take action. The earlier your teen gets help for depression, the better the outcome. No matter how your teen feels, it’s important to realize that depression can be treated and managed.
How to Help a Teenager With Depression
If you suspect your teenager is struggling with depression, there are a few steps you can take.
- Talk to your teen. Opening up a dialogue is the first step in helping your teen through their depression. Let them know it’s OK to talk about their feelings and encourage them to share their experiences.
- Get professional help. Seeking help from a mental health professional is key to helping your teen manage their depression in the long term. A therapist or psychologist can provide personalized advice and support tailored to your teenager’s unique needs.
- Encourage healthy habits. Depression can make it difficult for teens to take care of themselves, so it’s essential to encourage healthy habits, like eating nutritious foods and getting regular exercise.
Parenting Tips
It can be challenging to talk to your teen about serious topics like mental illness. Here are a few pointers from our team.
- Be patient. Teens may not always be open and honest about their feelings, so taking the time to listen and give them space can make all the difference.
- Stay positive. Remind your teen of their strengths and encourage them to focus on what they can control.
- Monitor progress. Keeping an eye on your teen’s behavior and mental state can help gauge how they’re doing.
Get Teen Depression Help
As a parent, it can be scary to realize your teen is struggling. But you don’t have to navigate this alone.
At The Forum, Dr. Savarese offers evidence-backed treatments for teen depression, including intensive outpatient services and individual psychiatry. Our team can provide psychological testing, family therapy, and case management to help your teen get the support they need.
Don’t wait to get help. Seek professional assistance today and give them a chance to thrive. Contact The Forum for more information about our services or to schedule an appointment.
