Teenage Depression: What Parents Need to Know

What is depression? 

According to the World Health Organization, depression is “a common mental disorder that presents with depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, low energy, and poor concentration,”
 
It is but normal for some teenagers to feel sad or anxious, but if these emotions don't pass within a few days, it might be something more serious. Depression, if untreated and begins to interfere with day-to-day activities, can't be disregarded. In the DSM V Manual, a major depressive disorder (MDD) is considered as a medical illness that affects how one feels, thinks, and behaves, causing persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Depression can actually lead to a variety of emotional and even physical problems and requires long term treatment.
 
Is your teenager suffering from depression? Mayo Clinic lists some warning signs for all parents to be aware of.

• Feelings of sadness or unhappiness
• Irritability or frustration, even over small matters
• Loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities
• Insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Agitation or restlessness
• Angry outbursts
• Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
• Indecisiveness, distractibility and decreased concentration
• Fatigue, tiredness and loss of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixation on past failures, or self-blame when things aren't going right
• Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
• Frequent thoughts of death, dying or suicide
• Crying spells for no apparent reason
• Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches

What can you do to help your teenage child cope with depression?

While it's still best to seek professional help, but as a parent, let your child know that you're there to make him or her feel better. Some things that you can do:

1. Participate in enjoyable activities.  Encourage your teenage child to get involved in activities that he or she enjoys.  That helps him or her shift focus away from negative thoughts. Physical activity is always helpful. 

2. Seek social support. Encourage your teenage child to meet people his or her age and within his or her circle. Cousins, friends, church group, and school mates can can be a great source of support.

Read more at Natasha Goulbourn Foundation