Teen Depression: How To Notice The Signs

Parents hope that their children are able to lead a life where they feel happy and fulfilled. We do our best to make sure that they know we are with them for every twist and turn. As your child transitions into becoming a teen, they will encounter a new set of challenges through challenges different than ones they faced in childhood. Adolescence comes with its own types of struggles that can have a big impact your teenager. Teen depression has been on the rise in the last decade, and the signs are not always easy to notice. 

The most important thing you can do to help your teenager is actively be tuned in to their behavior, and to support them they are facing challenges with their mental health. Another important thing is to know what steps to take when your teen needs professional help. 

So, how can you distinguish between a moody teenager and a teenager that is truly struggling? 

Pay Attention, Even When Everything Seems Normal

Teenagers are notorious for being moody because of the complicated stage they are at in their lives. Many of us have fond memories of our teenage years – but in any stage of life, there are tough moments! With the stress of school, friendships, jobs and relationships, there can be a lot of stress involved in teenage life. Many teens find themselves overwhelmed and isolated by the new freedoms and responsibilities that come with growing up. The teen years are a common time for those more vulnerable to mental health challenges to start experiencing them.

As a parent, it’s important that you pay attention to what your teen says and how they behave. Some symptoms might be hard to differentiate from the typical behaviors that happen in adolescence – everyone knows that teens can get moody and irritable! However, if you notice that your teen is feeling blue or angry for long periods, crying, and having negative thoughts, it’s worth it to have a conversation about what they are feeling and why.

Aside from your teen’s mood changes, special attention should be paid to their actions. People with depression may have little energy and experience changes in their eating and sleeping habits – they might sleep or eat too much or too little. It’s important to note if this behavior is strictly due to school/extracurricular activities, or if there is something more serious going on. Individuals who are going through depression can suddenly show a lack of interest in activities that they normally enjoy, become withdrawn, or struggle with their academics.

Be Approachable

Teenagers are at a point in their lives where they will want their own freedom and independence.  They will want to cope with problems on their own and strive to take on every challenge head on. However, in times of great stress or low mood, it’s important for them to know that they can go to their parents for help. It’s important to set up a relationship with your teenager where being open about one’s feelings is encouraged. When you take the first step to talk to your teen in an empathetic and open-minded way, this encourages your teenager to seek you out in the moments where they might struggle to open up and rely on their loved ones for support.

When your teen approaches you, be ready to listen to them. Be mindful, be gentle and be open.

We want to support you and your teen through the journey of adolescence.  

When trying to help your teenager through such a difficult time, it’s okay to recognize when your guidance may not be enough. Seeking out professional support for your teenager when needed is also an integral part in their growth. If that happens, therapists are a great resource for support, with key knowledge and tools that can provide guidance to those who are struggling mentally. We are here to help your teenager cope with what they are going through. 

If this has felt like something you have been looking for, feel free to reach out to us for further information about teen therapy.