Centered Health on Teenage Depression

Adolescence is always an unsettling time, with the many physical, emotional, psychological and social changes that accompany this stage of life. The transition from adolescence into young adulthood is often marked by normal emotional ups and downs. To make matters worse, teens are bombarded by conflicting messages from parents, friends, and society.  After puberty, adolescents experience a variety of changes, both behaviorally and psychologically. They also experience mood swings that can seem severe, depending on the day and the circumstances, say the experts from Centered Health, one of California’s best residential treatment facilities for adolescents in recovery from addiction and co-occurring disorders.

Depression is of the most common mental health diagnoses among adolescents. However, symptoms in teens may manifest themselves in different ways than in adults due to the different social and developmental challenges facing teens. Estimates from a study conducted by Centered Health in Malibu clearly states that up to 15 percent of children and adolescents have some symptoms of depression. The symptoms of depression can often be difficult for parents to spot. Sometimes, depression is confused with the typical feelings of puberty and teenage adjustment.

Today’s teens see more of what life has to offer, but that includes both good and bad. Issues such as peer pressure, academic expectations and changing bodies can bring a lot of mixed emotions for adolescents. But for some teenagers, the lows are more than just temporary feelings — they're a symptom of depression.

Issues such as peer pressure, academic expectations and changing bodies can bring a lot of ups and downs for teens. But for some teens, sadness or sense of isolation are more than just temporary feelings, they’re symptoms of depression. These symptoms may indicate depression, particularly when they last for more than two weeks, add from Centered Health. That’s why it’s good to be prepared or even be alert for emotional changes, such as:

• Poor performance in school
• Withdrawal from friends and activities
• 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
• Indecision, lack of concentration or forgetfulness
• Restlessness and agitation
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
• Substance abuse
• Problems with authority
• Suicidal thoughts or actions

If depression symptoms continue or begin to interfere in your teen's life, Centered Health recommends talking to a doctor or a mental health professional trained to work with adolescents. Therapy can help teens understand why they are depressed and learn how to cope with stressful situations. Depending on the situation, treatments vary from individual, group to family counseling. Medications prescribed by a psychiatrist can also help teens feel better.

If you're a teen and you think you may be depressed, or you know someone who may be depressed, don't wait to get help. Talk to a health care provider such as your doctor or school nurse, share your concerns with a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust.

You can also visit Centered Health's Crunchbase profile here.