If you d like to talk about it, I m here any time. Signs of depression in adolescents, besides sadness, might include extreme boredom, irritability, constant fatigue or having many physical complaints like headaches and aches and pains. Typical symptoms of adult depression also occur in teens, including appetite and sleep changes, inability to concentrate, feelings of worthlessness, guilt or suicidal feelings. In these situations parents can be very important to their teen s recovery. First they must recognize that depression is an illness, not a choice.
Depression is a complex illness.
While it s difficult to predict how someone will react to stress, there are a few common elements that may predict depression in a teen. Teens with a family history of divorce, loss, parental substance abuse or depression may be at an increased risk. Parents should accept that the teen has a treatable illness and give them support and reassurance in any way possible. Medication is sometimes used along with counseling because this helps depressed teens get better faster. Primary care physicians are learning to diagnose depression and make appropriate referrals if needed.