Teenagers experience a wide variety of moods and emotions. Sometimes they will go through a period of feeling depressed. Teenage depression is normal; however, if it becomes a chronic issue then it may be something more serious.
As a parent of teenagers I want to be able to recognize when things are not right. Most teenagers won’t come right out and say that they are depressed. Or they may not even associate what they are feeling as being depression. It is not always recognizable to the person experiencing it.
Of course, we have to be balanced in gauging our teens because they experience moments of melancholy and just being in a bad mood. Yet if we fail to recognize signs of depression then our teens may quickly spiral down.
Some of the warning signs that indicate the possibility of teenage depression on the social side of things include withdrawal from friends and family and loss of interest in activities. With behavior you may notice sadness, irritability, anger, hostility, crying, lack of motivation and energy, fatigue and difficulty concentrating.
Some of the physical signs of teenage depression include changes in their eating habits and sleeping habits. Sometimes teens will begin overeating or under-eating. They may also have trouble sleeping or begin to sleep for long periods of time.
Of course some teens will come right out and say things that are a big clue that something is not right. Many parents will say that their teens are just being dramatic. However any teen that is talking about suicide or expresses hopelessness in any way should be taken seriously.
One of the best things a parent can do is make sure that communication lines stay open. Your teen should know that they can come to you. If they don’t feel comfortable or safe coming to you then you may be missing out an opportunity to help your teen. If they are upset about a breakup with a boyfriend or girlfriend, a problem with a friend or failing grades they need to know that they can come to you and you will take their concerns seriously.
Never dismiss a teen’s feelings about something. To you it may seem irrational but it certainly doesn’t to them. What may not be a big deal to you can be a travesty to a teen, so don’t let your emotions override their emotions.
Learn to recognize signs of teenage depression and do whatever you can to intervene if it is going on.
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