It is common for adolescents to occasionally feel sad, angry, and unhappy. However when these feelings last for more than two weeks and the teen displays behaviors typical of depression, then he or she may be suffering from adolescent depression. Statistics suggest that depression affects as many as 1 in every 33 children and 1 in 8 adolescents.

There are many reasons why teenagers become depressed. Stressful environments can lead to depression. Teens can develop a sense of worthlessness and inadequacy over school performance, social relationships, or family life. If friends or activities that the teen usually enjoys fail to improve his or her sadness or sense of isolation, there's a good chance that he or she is depressed. Depression also tends to be more common in adolescents who have a history of depression in their families. If you believe your teenager is suffering from depression, you should seek help from a qualified healthcare professional.

Symptoms of Teen Depression

Often depressed teens will display a striking change in their thinking and behavior, lose their motivation, or become withdrawn. The following are notable signs:

1. Sadness, anxiety, or a feeling of worthlessness.

2. Loss of interest in food or overeating which results in rapid weight gain or loss.

3. Inability to fall asleep at night or sleeping most of the day.

4. Withdrawal from friends and family.

5. Rebellious behavior, sudden drop in Grade Point Average or cutting school.

6. Somatic symptoms including headaches, low back pain or fatigue.

7. Use of alcohol or drugs.

8. A preoccupation with death and dying.

Advice for Parents

Parenting teenagers can be very challenging. Some communication techniques can go a long way toward lowering the stress level of your teenager.

1. When disciplining your teen, replace shame and punishment with positive reinforcement for good behavior. Shame and punishment can make an adolescent feel worthless and inadequate.

2. Expect your teenager to make mistakes. Overprotection or making decisions for teens can be perceived as a lack of faith in their abilities. This can make them feel less confident.

3. Give your teen breathing room.

4. They must follow their own path and this may diverge sharply from yours. They are unique and unrepeatable human beings.

5. If you suspect your teen is depressed, take the time to listen to his or her concerns. Regardless of your opinion of the importance of these concerns they are very real to your teen.

6. Do not offer advice or solutions unless you are asked to do so. Keep the lines of communication open.

While parents can do a lot to "reach" their teen, sometimes professional help can be extremely valuable.

How is Depression Diagnosed in Adolescents?

There aren't any specific medical tests that can be performed to detect depression. Healthcare professionals determine if an adolescent is depressed using clinical diagnostic interviews and psychological tests with the individual and his or her family members, teachers, or peers. The severity of depression and the risk of suicide are determined based on the assessment of these interviews and tests. Treatment recommendations are also based on data collected from these interviews. There are a variety of methods used to treat depression. Your mental health care provider will determine the best course of treatment for your teen.

Community Counseling Group, located in Westlake Village, offers individual and group counseling services for teens as well as extensive psychological and neuropsychological testing services conducted by Board-Certified Clinical Neuropsychologists.

In-depth information and resources are available online at www.CCGhelp.com. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call 805-373-1033.