| Depression can be a temporary response to many different situations and stresses. In adolescents, depressed mood is common because of the normal maturation process, the stress associated with it, the influence of sex hormones, and independence conflicts with parents.
It may also be a reaction to a trauma, such as the death of a friend or relative, a breakup with a boyfriend or girlfriend, or failure at school. Adolescent girls are twice as likely as boys to experience depression. Adolescents, who have low self-esteem, are highly self-critical, and who feel little sense of control over negative events are particularly at risk to become depressed when they experience stressful events.
True depression in teens is often difficult to diagnose because normal adolescent behavior is marked by both up and down moods. These moods may come and go over a period of hours or days.
Some of the signs of teenage depression are:
* Change in behaviors either at home or school in mood and actions
* Violence or temper
* Minor criminal behavior such as shoplifting, missing curfews
* Change in diet and eating habits such as bulimia or anorexia
* Excessive sleeping
* Suicidal thoughts and dwelling on the subject of death
* Difficulty sleeping accompanied by fatigue
* Feelings of sadness, or self-hatred
Anxiety and stress levels in teenagers have definitely increased over the last few decades. Our fast paced lifestyle contributes greatly to this. Many times we think depression and anxiety are just normal teenage feelings. We need to be able to recognize what is a serious condition, and what are normal teen problems.
What are some of the factors contributing to teen anxiety.
* Family History
* Divorce of their parents
* Peer pressure
* School failure
* Pressure to succeed in sports and extra-curricular activities
* Pressure from parents to succeed based on their expectations
These are some contributing factors, but what are the symptoms?
* Paranoia or feelings of doubt and uneasiness
* Physical pain such as aching or abdominal pain
* Rapid heartbeat
* Irritability or unexplained anger
* Difficulty sleeping
* Dizziness or off balance
* Chest pain
* Difficulty concentrating
* Fear that is not reasonable
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it is recommended to consult a professional or boot camps . |
