Know These Teenage Depression Facts!

If you are right now the parent of a teenager then I don't have to tell you that they can sometimes be challenging and moody... I'm sorry... did I say SOMETIMES? Seriously though, yes we all know that not all teenagers are moody and difficult but let's definitely agree that the teen years are pretty damn hard on everybody involved. It's not always just moodiness and grunt styled conversation however and some teens can actually slip into a deep depression during this time. As a parent as well as the teenager going through this stage, it is good to know a few of the teenage depression facts that could be affecting them.

Teenage Depression Facts - Causes

Depression is in the strange paradox of being often over diagnosed as well as under diagnosed. That is mainly because there are definite similarities however case by case, depression causes, triggers and treatment is incredibly varied.

With the complexity of teenagers there could be many possible causes of teen depression. Teenagers are growing fast. Their body is changing in so many ways with crazy amounts of hormones rushing around. Incorporate this with the social expectations and indeed pressure put upon themselves to "find themselves" and sort out what, who and why they are going to be in this world and it's definitely a very tough time.

Being aware of teenage depression facts will help you better understand if you or your teenager is just moving through life as normal or actually something more sinister.

Signs of Depression in Teens

Low feelings of self worth and low self esteem is definitely one of the big factors to look out for when it comes to reasons for depression in teens. Is your teenager comparing themselves to others and feeling inadequate as a result? This can trigger loneliness, sadness, feeling like a misfit and can open them up to bullying.

Teenage Depression Facts - Too much pressure

Whether or not pressure to succeed academically or on the sporting field is self applied or is originating from parents, teachers or coaches makes no difference. Failure in these areas especially if combined with ridicule, sarcasm or anger can be a huge trigger for depression. The pressure to become better is noble and essential for growth however it must be done correctly and failure to achieve must be addressed carefully and positively.

Teenage Depression Facts - Is home a safe place?

Home should be a sanctuary for everyone. A safe place full of support and love and the a place where you can be yourself without fear, ridicule or persecution. Sadly however, this is not always the case and the family home can actually be the source of depression for many teens. Growing up and finding your way can be tough and especially if the parents of teens are putting too much pressure on their children in one way or another then yes, the family home can trigger depression, low self esteem and more.

Just to cloud teenage depression facts even further, depression is not always triggered by something or someone. Sometimes the cause of teenage depression can be as simple as certain biological imbalances.

Teenage Depression Facts - Symptoms to Look Out For

The good things about teen depression is that the red flags are very easy to spot. Not surprisingly, the better a relationship you have with your teenager, the easier it will be to see these symptoms earlier.

Outside of usual teenage angst, regular bouts of irritability and restlessness is a warning. Constant feelings of hopelessness, sadness including crying and loner behavior, withdrawing away from friends and family are big red flags.

Significant changes in usual behavior such as sleeping, eating and new sets of friends far different from the normal are potential problem signs. Signs of depression in teenagers can also be observed with extreme fatigue, long sleep hours and a difficulty to concentrate for any stretch of time.

The biggest red flag of all is if your teen if frequently talking or thinking about suicide and death. Intervene and get help immediately if this is the case with your teenager!

Several of these signs of teenage depression seem mild and can be quite common. It is not only a difference of behavior that you should look out for but the length of these symptoms. Are they long lasting? Are they getting better or worse? The best you can do is to pay attention and take extra note of significant differences in patterns of behavior.

Teenage Depression Facts - Seeking Treatment

Long-term depression in teenagers is very severe and at its worse, can lead to self harm and even suicide. Depression in teens causes all matter of complications that can really impact their lives and the lives of those around them.

The good news is that with early intervention, a loving family and an effective support network including teachers, counselors, health professionals and peers, the circle of depression can be broken.

Know your teenager, watch out for the clues and if you believe your teen could be at risk, don't dismiss these teenage depression facts and seek help immediately.

Depression is a truly awful condition and sadly is completely misunderstood with an incredibly cruel stigma attached to it. With this type of illness, information is key and the more we know about the symptoms and triggers of depression, the better equipped we are to deal with it.

We can all learn more about how to get over depression, including the Signs of Depression in Women and so much more at http://www.HowToGetOverDepression.org

I wish you all the luck in the world in getting over your depression and really hope my website can help!

Cameron Abel

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