Is Your
Teen Depressed?
Adrian H. Cline,
Superintendent
Rapid body changes, hormonal fluctuations,
peer pressure, failed relationships, and a variety of other adolescent issues
are enough to make any teen moody. For
these reasons, teenage depression often goes undetected.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of teenage
depression can help you determine whether your teen is clinically
depressed. Untreated depression can lead
to difficulties that can continue into adulthood. Identifying depression is the first step in
getting help.
Signs and Symptoms
§
Change in
sleeping patterns, including excessive sleep, inability to fall asleep, night
waking, and early rising.
§
Change in
eating patterns: weight loss, weight gain, eating disorders.
§
Lack of
interest in activities that once brought pleasure.
§
Explosive
anger, as well as anger that is disproportionate to the circumstances.
§
Irritability
and inability to find satisfaction.
§
Sadness, or
a general feeling of unhappiness, not tied to any specific event.
§
Decline in
grades and loss of concentration and motivation.
§
Thoughts or
talk of suicide. Always take this
seriously, and get your teen professional help without delay.
Clinical depression does not imply
“weakness” of character. It is a medical
condition that can be managed. Treatment
options include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two.
If you believe your teen is depressed, but unsure
of how to get help, check with your school guidance counselor. He or she can refer you to the appropriate
professional. Getting help will assist
your teen in leading a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
The Office
of Adrian H. Cline, Superintendent of Schools, is open from