Teenage Depression can be a serious problem. However, it can be treated. In extreme cases, a teen may attempt suicide. In these situations, parents should be on the lookout for signs and double their efforts to reach out to their teen. Many natural methods of treatment for depression are available, including exercise, proper diet, and positive thinking. Parents can also help by setting an example for their children.
Symptoms of teen depression
Symptoms of teen depression may include low energy, a lack of interest in activities, and sleep disturbance. Teens may also have difficulty relating to their peers and participating in school activities. The best treatment for a teenager with depression is a combination of therapy and medication. Lifestyle changes, exercise, and socializing may also help alleviate depression symptoms.
Many teen depression symptoms are difficult to detect. They may withdraw from friends and family and exhibit negative or defiant behavior. They may feel unlovable and have difficulty relating to others. Their body weight may drop, and they may lose interest in activities that used to make them happy. Those with depression may also have changes in their appetite and sleep patterns.
Treatment options
Among the available treatment options for teenage depression are cognitive behavioral therapy and psychotherapy. Both aim to change negative beliefs and behavior and can help teens overcome their depression. In both methods, the therapist teaches the patient to recognize and accept painful feelings. Dialectical behavior therapy focuses on the development of skills to regulate emotions.
In both approaches, the therapist teaches the teen how to use coping mechanisms to deal with negative thoughts and feelings. Moreover, the parents can encourage their teen to make friends so that they can develop healthy relationships and boost their self-esteem. After-school programs and extracurricular activities can also be beneficial to teenagers. However, even when teens have healthy social lives, they can still become depressed.
Medication
Medication for teenage depression can be very effective in treating the condition. The medication works by addressing the chemical imbalance, which can cause depression. The drugs are known as antidepressants. Depending on the cause of the depression, the therapy can involve one or more medications. The treatment typically involves talking with a therapist and taking the medication.
When the depression in a teenager is severe, the doctor may prescribe antidepressants to alleviate the symptoms. These medications are considered temporary. For mild depression, psychotherapy may be enough. For more serious cases, medication is needed.
Common factors contributing to teen depression
Teens suffering from depression tend to isolate themselves from family and friends, and they may not be participating in their hobbies or schoolwork. They may also be irritable or physically aggressive. Their sleep and eating habits may also be affected. This condition can be crippling and cause a great deal of pain to the victim. However, there are ways to help your depressed teen feel better.
Teens are particularly vulnerable to depression if they have experienced trauma in the past. Whether it is a breakup or loss of a loved one, the traumatic events of their past can trigger a depressed mood. When they feel isolated from friends and family, their feelings of helplessness can deepen. Teens are also at risk of developing depression if they are exposed to too much online activity.