Teen Depression-Is it a Phase? What You Can Do to Help
By: Julie Sekachev, M.Ed, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S
Teen years can be challenging. It is normal for a teen to feel sad and irritable at times. However, if the feelings become overwhelming and your teen feels hopeless or helpless, it could be clinical depression.
Is it a Phase?
Teen depression is different than temporarily feeling sad. It is a severe and debilitating mood disorder. Depression can affect how you feel, think, and concentrate. Furthermore, it can make everyday functioning more difficult. Teen years can be challenging, but clinical depression goes far beyond moodiness. Many unhealthy and rebellious behaviors in teenagers can indicate depression. It is important to note that depression may not appear as a sad mood for teens. It can also show up as anger or irritability.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Teens:
- Sadness or hopelessness.
- Anger or irritability.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Crying spells.
- Change in school performance.
- Change in eating or sleeping patterns.
- Lack of motivation.
- Feelings of worthlessness.
- Lack of energy.
- Unexplained headaches or stomachaches.
- Thoughts of death or suicide.
In Addition to the Signs and Symptoms, Consider the Following Questions:
- How long have the symptoms been present?
- How severe are the depression symptoms? How much impact do they have on your teen’s day-to-day life?
- How long have these symptoms persisted? Undoubtedly, changes in hormones during the teen years can account for some differences in mood. However, if your teen experiences continued sadness, irritability, or any of the above symptoms, consider having your teen assessed for depression.
How to Help Your Teen:
Have an Open Conversation
Firstly, if you are worried that your teen may be depressed, have an open dialogue about your concerns. Try to come from a place of acceptance and understanding. Let your teen know you have noticed specific depression symptoms, and ask to share what they are going through. Similarly, try to focus on listening, and resist the urge to judge, criticize or try to talk your teen out of depression. Even if their feelings seem irrational to you. Acknowledging the pain and sadness can help your teen feel heard, supported, and open up to you more.
Encourage Social Connection
For instance, isolation is a common symptom of depression but can worsen things. Encourage your teen to stay connected by making face-to-face contact a priority. Participate in activities that involve other families. This will allow your teen an opportunity to communicate with others. You can volunteer together, spend time with friends at home, or encourage a favorite social activity of their choosing. The important thing is an opportunity to connect with others, which can act as a natural antidepressant.
Increase Physical Activity
Exercise can increase endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals in the brain. Exercise doesn’t have to be dull. You can get creative by signing your teen up for kickboxing, roller skating, swimming, bike riding, or skateboarding. Furthermore, as long as your teen is moving, it’s beneficial.
Limit Screen Time
Sometimes, teens may go online to escape. But, increased screen time can lead to social isolation and worsen symptoms. Talk to your teen about expectations and set limits.
Seek Professional Help
Lastly, if you notice significant changes in mood, signs of depression, suicidal thoughts, or evidence of self-harm, don’t hesitate to contact professionals. Listen to their input on choosing an individual therapist, group therapy, or both. When selecting a specialist, it is important to involve your teen in the process. The relationship your teen forms with their therapist is crucial for effective treatment. It should be noted, that, as a parent, you take care of yourself. Consider individual or family therapy and take some time for self-care.
Begin Therapy for Teen Depression in Katy, TX:
If you are ready to receive help for your depression, one of the therapists at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch can help! We provide a range of counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. To begin counseling in Katy, TX follow these three steps:
- Contact our office to set up an appointment or get more information regarding teen depression.
- Meet with one of our skilled therapists.
- Find new ways to help your teen with depression!
Other Therapy Services We Offer:
Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch, we offer counseling services for people of all ages in areas including counseling for kids, counseling for young adults, teen counseling, couples counseling, eating disorder treatment, men's issues, women's issues, anxiety treatment, depression therapy, trauma counseling, family therapy, and group counseling. Our therapists strive to post blogs regularly. We provide helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. To learn more about our therapists and counseling services, please reach out to the Counseling Center today!