In a recent post, I talked about ways to help a friend or loved one who may be suffering from depression. When that loved one is a teenager or young adult, however, the warning signs, diagnosis and treatment options are often different. It is estimated that depression affects roughly 11 percent of teenagers. Although depression is usually more common in girls, teenage boys also suffer. They’re just less likely to seek help. Let’s take a closer look at some of the signs and symptoms associated with depression in young people.

Warning signs

While some symptoms are consistent with that of adults, depression in young people often presents itself physically AND emotionally.

Here are a few things to watch out for:

• Irritability – While adult depression usually goes hand-in-hand with sadness, teenagers suffering from depression can be angry, easily frustrated or filled with rage.

• Unexplained physical ailments – Although growing pains are common in young children, complaints about aches, pains, frequent headaches or stomachaches can be a red flag for depression in teenagers.

• Extreme sensitivity – I’m sure we all remember what typical teenage angst feels like. Intense feelings of worthlessness, criticism, guilt or failure, however, are NOT normal.

• Selective withdrawal – Unlike adults who may isolate themselves when depressed, teens tend to only withdraw from certain people. They might find a new crowd to hang with and ignore their usual friends, or they may pull away from parents or family members.

• Problems at school – A teen’s performance at school can be a great barometer for depression. Watch for a drop in grades, truancy, disciplinary issues or trouble with concentration and exhaustion.

• Behavioral issues – Teens who are depressed often make reckless or harmful choices. They may become involved in drugs and alcohol, promiscuity, violence, Internet addiction or unsafe driving.

How to help

Talking to teenagers about anything, let alone depression, can be a struggle for some parents.

Here’s what I suggest:

• Pour on the love, GENTLY! – Go out of your way to be as loving and sensitive as possible, without making your teen feel uncomfortable or patronized. Let him know that you’re in his corner 100 percent and that you want to help.

• Listen – Everyone wants to be heard, understood and validated without feeling judged or lectured.

• Talk to your pediatrician – It’s important to rule out any possible medical issues first. If your pediatrician believes your child is depressed, he will be able to recommend a therapist or counselor who specializes in adolescents.

• Educate yourself – If you’ve never experienced depression, it will be hard to relate to your teen. I suggest learning as much as you can, whether it’s through books and resources or support groups and a therapist. Involve your teen in the research as well. It’s important for him to know that he is not alone and that plenty of other people suffer in this way.

No parent wants to see his or her child struggling with depression. Remember that the best way to avoid issues later in life is to seek treatment immediately. It’s often very effective and will aid your teen well into adulthood.

David Lowenstein, Ph.D. is a Psychologist and the Clinical Director of Lowenstein & Associates, Inc. in Columbus, Ohio. In addition to providing therapeutic services to individuals and families, he offers training and consultation to numerous associations, schools and agencies around the country. Additionally, he is a frequent radio and TV guest and a resource and contributing writer for numerous newspapers and magazines nationwide.

Contact Dr. David Lowenstein at 691 South Fifth Street
Columbus, OH 43206 or by phone at 614.443.6155 or 614.444.0432.