How many teenagers are depressed

The restlessness brought on by depression may lead to behaviors such as fidgeting or acting up in class.

Depression is one of the most common of all mental health problems. The good news is that it's also one of the most treatable conditions. Young people with depression and their families and friends often don't know how to spot the problem or where to seek help.

Seek professional help if you suspect your teen suffers from depression, and choose a therapist who specializes in treating teenagers. Find a different counselor if the one you visit makes your son or daughter feel ill at ease or doesn't seem to understand your teen's needs.

A therapist who's too formal or can't establish good rapport with children will make your child more apprehensive. If possible, get a recommendation from your health care provider, a school counselor, or friend. Depending on the severity of your teen's depression and its causes, the therapist may suggest either talk therapy, medication, or both.

Usually, a combination of both will get the best results. Although the research provides evidence in the form of numbers and statistics, there still remains the question as to why so many teens are depressed today. Depression is serious, and if left untreated, it can lead to worsening symptoms, which, in some cases may become life threatening. If you think your adolescent or teen may be struggling with depression, there are treatment options that can help. If your teenager recognizes the need for help, and comes to you asking for it, he or she has taken a major step towards recovery.

Yet, it is important to remember that very few adolescents or teens seek help on their own. Many need encouragement from a friend or family member. So, if you think your child may be struggling with depression, ask him or her about it and suggest treatment options and call Polaris Teen Center at Polaris Teen Center is a residential treatment facility for teens and adolescents suffering from severe mental health disorders. Changes in sleep patterns Changes in eating habits and appetite including weight loss or weight gain Crying spells, often with no clear cause Loss of energy or lethargy Alcohol or drug use Isolation spending time alone Poor academic performance Anger outbursts or agitation Restlessness i.

Self-harm i. Stress — teenagers today seem more stressed out than ever before; and stress is directly related to symptoms of depression. The Nine Line. Covenant House crisis counseling for homeless and at-risk children.

Depression in Teens Breadcrumb Home. Dealing With Adolescent Pressures When teens feel down, there are ways they can cope with these feelings to avoid serious depression. Try to make new friends. Participate in sports, job, school activities or hobbies. Staying busy helps teens focus on positive activities rather than negative feelings or behaviors.

Join organizations that offer programs for young people. Special programs geared to the needs of adolescents help develop additional interests. Ask a trusted adult for help. When problems are too much to handle alone, teens should not be afraid to ask for help. Recognizing Adolescent Depression Adolescent depression is increasing at an alarming rate. These symptoms may indicate depression, particularly when they last for more than two weeks: Poor performance in school Withdrawal from friends and activities Sadness and hopelessness Lack of enthusiasm, energy or motivation Anger and rage Overreaction to criticism Feelings of being unable to satisfy ideals Poor self-esteem or guilt Indecision, lack of concentration or forgetfulness Restlessness and agitation Changes in eating or sleeping patterns Substance abuse Problems with authority Suicidal thoughts or actions A quick, easy and confidential way to determine if you may be experiencing depression is to take a mental health screening.

Treating Adolescent Depression It is extremely important that depressed teens receive prompt, professional treatment. Some of the most common and effective ways to treat depression in adolescents are: Psychotherapy provides teens an opportunity to explore events and feelings that are painful or troubling to them. Psychotherapy also teaches them coping skills. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps teens change negative patterns of thinking and behaving.

Interpersonal therapy focuses on how to develop healthier relationships at home and at school. Medication relieves some symptoms of depression and is often prescribed along with therapy. Facing the Danger Of Teen Suicide Sometimes teens feel so depressed that they consider ending their lives. Recognizing the Warning Signs Four out of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warnings. Finally, there may be a link between childhood depression and anxiety. Large amounts of irritability or anger.

Headaches, stomach problems , or body aches. These include academic failure, substance misuse, impaired interpersonal relationships with family and peers, eating disorders , increased severity of health conditions, crime, and suicidal behaviors , says Weinstein. Then you should approach your teen with openness and acceptance.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness can also connect teens with local support. Busman suggests. Experts often treat teen depression with medication or talk therapy psychotherapy. For moderate to severe depression, teens usually improve best with a combination of medication and therapy — particularly cognitive behavioral therapy CBT , says Weinstein.