Teenagers nowadays faced tremendous pressure. Teenagers need to handle the hormonal changes of puberty, deal with peer pressures, major exams and at the same time, figure out about the transition to adult in their social roles. These demands can be overwhelming for some teenagers and can cause depression.
There are some early warning signs of depression that parents should know about. These include:
A family history of depression, could indicate a predisposition for teenager depression. External factors such as traumatic experiences, relationship problems, exam and study stress could increase the risk of depression.
A key factor in resisting depression is resilience. Learning how to cope with life's stress and the availability of social support are important for increasing a teen's resilience to depression.
The two main treatment for depression is psychotherapy and medication. A combination of psychotherapy and medication has been shown to be most effective. However, in the case of young patients, psychotherapy is preferred.
Psychotherapy aims to increase mental resilience by helping the teen to think more positively and learn how to deal with his or her problems.
When necessary, in severe cases, antidepressant medications may protect against the effects of stress factor. Antidepressant drugs can also correct biochemical imbalances in the brain which may be causing depression.
Early treatment of teenager depression offers the best hope of recovery. So do not mistake teenage depression for teen angst or teenager attitude problems. It is important to seek professional advice if you suspect that your child needs help for depression.
If you have to deal with a teenager who has depression, show your support in the following manner:
There are some early warning signs of depression that parents should know about. These include:
- Social withdrawal
- Loss of appetite
- Sleeping disorder
- Deliberate self-harm
- Lack of energy
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Deteriorating school results
- Problems paying attention during class
- Recurring complaints of physical problems, such as headaches and stomach aches
- Unusual aggression or reckless behavior
A family history of depression, could indicate a predisposition for teenager depression. External factors such as traumatic experiences, relationship problems, exam and study stress could increase the risk of depression.
A key factor in resisting depression is resilience. Learning how to cope with life's stress and the availability of social support are important for increasing a teen's resilience to depression.
The two main treatment for depression is psychotherapy and medication. A combination of psychotherapy and medication has been shown to be most effective. However, in the case of young patients, psychotherapy is preferred.
Psychotherapy aims to increase mental resilience by helping the teen to think more positively and learn how to deal with his or her problems.
When necessary, in severe cases, antidepressant medications may protect against the effects of stress factor. Antidepressant drugs can also correct biochemical imbalances in the brain which may be causing depression.
Early treatment of teenager depression offers the best hope of recovery. So do not mistake teenage depression for teen angst or teenager attitude problems. It is important to seek professional advice if you suspect that your child needs help for depression.
If you have to deal with a teenager who has depression, show your support in the following manner:
- Be patient. Do not apportion blame.
- Encourage your child to seek help from a doctor or counselor
- If your child is prescribed antidepressant medication, make sure that he or she takes the right dose regularly.
- Monitor your child closely. Watch for any mood changes for the worse. If your child starts talking about suicide, seek professional help immediately.
