Adolescent Depression
It's important to recognize when a teenager is being a "teenager," and when a teenager is becoming depressed. Although most
adolescents typically go through periods of moodiness and sadness, it's when those feelings persist and become more extreme
that parents should be concerned.
It is also important for parents and caregivers to be aware that some children and adolescents with depression may not value
their lives which can put them at risk for suicide.
Here are the most common symptoms of adolescent depression:
- Avoiding friends and family; spending a lot of time alone
- Decline in school work or lower grades on report card
- Not enjoying favorite activities
- Crying often
- Feeling like a failure
- Sleeping difficulties - too much or too little
- Antisocial behavior; acting aggressively
- Lack of energy and fatigue
- Difficulty paying attention; distracted
- Feeling bored frequently
- Acting irritable
What you can do to help
If your child or loved one shows signs of depression, don't wait for the problem to go away by itself. Get help now.
When you need to talk to someone, turn to Belmont Behavioral Health at 1-800-220-HELP (4357) or (215) 877-2000.
