Teenagers have many pressures as they move through adolescence, from the changes of puberty to questions about who they are and where they fit in. The natural transition from childhood to adulthood can also bring conflicts with parents as teens start to assert their independence. With so many changes, it isn’t always easy to differentiate between depression and normal teenage moodiness. Teens with depression do not necessarily appear sad, nor do they always withdraw from others. For some depressed teens, symptoms of irritability, aggression, and rage are more prominent.
The following are some examples of behaviors of how how depression can present in adolescents:
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- Sadness or hopelessness
- Irritability, anger, or hostility
- Tearfulness or frequent crying
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Loss of interest in activities
- Changes in eating and sleeping habits[/ezcol_1half] [ezcol_1half_end]
- Restlessness and agitation
- Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
- Lack of enthusiasm and motivation
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of death or suicide[/ezcol_1half_end]
If you’re unsure if an adolescent in your life is depressed or just “being a teenager,” call our office for an appointment.