Teen Depression
Understanding, Treatment & Help

Teen depression is a special subset of depression and is a serious mood disorder that can result in a loss of interest in regular activities or cause persistent feelings of sadness. Depression symptoms for teens can be very similar to those experienced by adults, but signs of depression can look different in each individual.

Depression symptoms in teens can present not just as sadness or apathy, but can also look like anger, hostility, and irritability. It can include poor school performance and withdrawal from friends or sports they once enjoyed. Teenagers face a tremendous amount of pressure and stress from the changes of puberty and questions of who they are and how they fit in among their peers. It can be a challenge to differentiate between typical growing pains and depression.

Depression in teens is a serious issue that impacts every aspect of a teen’s life and it’s important to be responsive to these mood disorders. Certainly, if a teen begins to talk or joke about suicide, use creative avenues such as art or poetry to focus on death and suicide, or give away prized positions, special attention must be given immediately to ensure their safety. Fortunately, teen depression is extremely treatable with the help of a trained child psychologist.

Dealing with depression can be effective in a supportive, warm environment like Chicago Behavioral Health and teens can go on to enjoy rich, fulfilling lives and fully engaged with their families, friends, and community.