How to Recognize Depression in Teens

Teens often are mis-diagnosed when it comes to depression since their hormones and emotions are constantly changing. Most of the time their changing moods are attributed to 'just being a teenager' or hormone levels. It is very important to catch depression early so that the teenager learns how to deal with it and not have it cause problems in the future.

Instructions

• 1

  Notice. The first thing is noticing your teenager' s behaviour, especially if it has changed. Were they once outgoing and are now withdrawn? Did they used to wear different colours and now wear all black? Did they used to go out all the time but now stay in their room? Are their grades dropping? These are some of the questions you should ask yourself if you notice a change in their behaviour.

• 2

  Ask questions. Your teenager may not answer you since you are their parent but it's important that they know you care and that they can come to you to talk.

• 3

  Tell them your experiences. If you or someone you know suffers or has had experience with depression, tell them about it. This lets them know that they are not alone and that you can overcome or learn to live with depression.

• 4

  Leave brochures or information in their room. If they still won't talk to you and you are sure they are suffering from depression or are still concerned, leave information for them to read. This helps them understand depression and how they are feeling. This also increases your knowledge of depression and better prepares you for when they are ready to talk.

• 5

  Gather information for yourself. Similar to the step above, gather information for yourself. To help someone with depression you first need to know what it is all about. There are many myths out there regarding depression and knowing the facts from the myths is extremely important in the fight against depression. This will help you better connect with your teenager and create an opportunity for your teenager to talk to you about depression.

• 6

  If all else fails and your teenager will still not talk to you about it, make an appointment with a counsellor. They may be angry you did that, but, in the long run, it's better to have them angry with you for a short while then let the depression continue without help. It also might be awhile before they open up to the counsellor but eventually they'll see the benefit of it and will talk to them.

• 7

  Be prepared to be involved in their therapy. There are many forms of therapy for depression (i.e. medication, counselling, journaling, group therapy) and you will need to be involved as much as you can. Continued support is an important factor in fighting depression.