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Teen Depression
When discussing causes and symptoms of teen depression, it becomes clear very early on that it is certainly complex, a growing problem, no laughing matter and the statistics are overwhelming. Teen depression is also hard to diagnose and early intervention is key. Adolescence is typically described as a journey of self-discovery, immense challenge and change, growth characterized by many physical, emotional, psychological and social changes during this stage of life. Emotions are in overdrive, experienced intensely, almost in over-exaggeration, with open rebellion and over-reaction at times. Societal and peer pressure does not help the situation much at all. Teens are bombarded by conflicting messages from parents, friends and society. Today's teens see more of what life has to offer earlier in life – bombarded by both good and bad – through multi-media, advertising, music, on television, at school, in magazines and on the Internet. They are also forced to learn about the threat and reality of AIDS, even if they are not sexually active or using drugs. Recognizing teen depression for what it is no easy matter either. There are various depression symptoms to be on the look-out for as parents of teens, teachers, helpers, friends and influencers in the teenagers life, particularly if these depression-like symptoms are uncharacteristic of the teen, disruptive to daily life and normal functioning, leads to negative behaviour that impacts or endangers the interpersonal social and family relationships, consistent low self esteem vented as either aggression and/or withdrawal and feelings of worthlessness and futility, that lasts more than two weeks and do not seem to dissipate: irrational on-going uneasiness and anxiety, interference with the ability to think clearly, notice and remember details, inability to make any/good decisions, poor performance in school, withdrawal from friends and activities, inexplicable feelings of despair, guilt, apathy, sadness and hopelessness, lack of enthusiasm, energy or motivation, anger and rage, overreaction to criticism, feelings of being unable to satisfy ideals , poor self-esteem or guilt, forgetfulness, restlessness and agitation, noticeable and significant changes in eating or sleeping patterns, fatigue, insomnia, appetite disturbances, substance abuse, problems with authority, suicidal thoughts or actions. Some of these, all or a couple of these symptoms might be present which merits discussing it openly, keeping the channels of communication open, seeking professional help and counsel. There are numerous options and resources available to parents, caregivers and significant others involved in the teenagers life, medical community, support help lines, resource centers, therapeutic boarding schools or treatment centers that have had success in treatment. There are also numerous effective ways of providing and facilitating help with teen depression:
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