Teenage Depression: How Teens
Cope
Many people in society will disagree that teenage depression is
a serious problem in this country. It is surprising for most to
learn that statistics show about 20% of all teens will suffer
from depression at some point before they become adults. About
1 in 5 teens in America suffer from depression at any given
time. Many parents and teachers may overlook teenage
depression, confusing it with the normal shifts in attitude
that occur as a child ages. Thankfully, adults are now
recognizing this problem more often. However, it is still
important to know how teens are cope with depression. This will
make it easier to get a handle on the situation if it
arises.
Isolation
A common symptom of teenage depression is wanting to be alone.
Yes, it is hard to distinguish between depression and
disinterest if your teen doesn’t want to spend time with family
or friends. However, if activities that once gave them
enjoyment no longer do, that is a red flag. In addition,
spending excessive time alone may be an indicator that your
teen is hiding certain behaviors from you. You can assume that
teenage depression is the cause, and speak with your child
about it.
Abuse
Parents who are keen enough will be able to notice if their
teen is abusing drugs or alcohol. Common signs include denial
of anything being wrong, being secretive, or changes in
behavior and schedules. Teenage depression leads to substance
abuse 30% of the time. Don’t forget your teen may be abusive in
other forms, such as overeating or participating in risky
sexual behavior. Abuse of their bodies may be noticeable by
weight loss or gain, and scars on arms or legs can indicate
self-mutilation. This is not that uncommon in teens suffering
from depression.
Expression
Many of those with teenage depression express their sadness
through writing dark poetry or stories. They may listen to
music with depressing themes, or dress in dark clothing. The
most outward form of expression would involve constant crying,
fighting, or resisting authority. These are cries of help, and
not just another attention-getting measure to annoy parents.
Teenagers may also act up in class, or not show up at all.
Failing grades and calls home from the school should be
followed up with discipline and counseling, or a mental health
evaluation.
Seeking Help
Some research suggests that nearly 80% of teens who attempt
suicide due to teenage depression seek help, either from their
parents or by seeing a doctor. This says a lot for the
integrity of our teens, and their desire to feel better
mentally. Many parents or friends may dismiss a teen’s cry for
help, calling it a desire to get attention. This is a big
mistake. If your teen approaches you with concerns about
depression, seek help for them immediately.
Suicide
Unfortunately, for many with teenage depression, the only way
of coping is by making the ultimate mistake: suicide. Some
recent studies show that 1 in 5 teens had thought of
depression, and 1 in 12 had attempted suicide. Research also
indicates that for every teen that commits suicide, 10 more
attempt, but do not succeed. In addition, suicide is ranked as
the third leading cause of all teens, and is something entirely
preventable. Those are scary statistics.
Depression among teenagers is a very serious problem, indeed.
The good news is that like most mental health conditions,
depression is very treatable with medication or therapy.
Usually a combination of the two is recommended. If you spot
your teen exhibiting any of the behavior above, you should
assume he or she is suffering from teenage depression. Seek
help immediately, and you just may save their lives.
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