5 Signs Your Teen May Have Depression
Depression can be a real drag for everyone in the family, not just for the person suffering from it. Depression is often misunderstood as a teen being irritable, mopey, or difficult without reason. The typical teen does experience mood swings and some level of irritability or frustration as they are trying to navigate life in the in-between of not being a child and not yet being an adult. However, when there are signs and symptoms to look for just in case your teen is experiencing something more serious. Getting help right away is the best way to treat depression because it can leave its mark on the brain if left untreated. Here are 5 signs to help you know if your teen is feeling depressed.
Lack of Energy. Depression often leaves teens feeling lethargic in a lot of ways. They may lack energy throughout the day over a prolonged period of time such as 30 days. If your teen seems to be struggling to get up to do things that they used to love to do, do chores, or seems tired most of the time, they may be experiencing depression.
Sleep Issues. Teens struggling with depression may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Usually, anxiety causes difficulties falling asleep while depression is typically the culprit for why it might be tough to stay asleep. Lack of sleep or sleep disturbances can have a negative impact on your teen’s mood, ability to think clearly, to concentrate, and their performance in school.
Eating. Although most teens with depression seem to overeat, some also do not eat enough. Be sure to notice if your teen’s appetite or weight has changed without a conscious effort. Often, when someone feels stressed or depressed, they tend to crave more carbs and sugars, so that is also something to keep an eye on. Notice not just how much or how often your teen is eating, but also what they are eating.
Anger or Crying. Anger and crying are not mutually exclusive; however, they do sometimes occur in isolation. That means that the emotions of depression are commonly expressed through sadness/crying or through anger. Everyone feels angry and cries from time to time, but if these symptoms are persistent for your teen, get help right away. Feeling angry all the time or crying for no reason are no way to live. Don’t let your teen continue to suffer.
Anhedonia. Anhedonia is a fancy way of saying that your teen is not enjoying things they used to enjoy. For example, someone who used to love going on bike rides and does not seek opportunities to do that anymore may be experiencing depression. Someone who used to love being outdoors and now stays inside most days may be experiencing depression.
There are other signs or symptoms of depression including self-harm (by cutting, for example), having hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that others do not hear or see), or having thoughts of killing or hurting themselves. Please seek professional help immediately if your teen exhibits any of these symptoms. Call Clear Life Counseling & Testing to schedule your free consultation now.