Teenage Depression: How Teens Cope
Many people in society will disagree that teenage depression is a serious problem in this country. It is surprising
for most to learn that statistics show about 20% of all teens will suffer from depression at some point before they
become adults. About 1 in 5 teens in America suffer from depression at any given time. Many parents and teachers
may overlook teenage depression, confusing it with the normal shifts in attitude that occur as a child ages.
Thankfully, adults are now recognizing this problem more often. However, it is still important to know how teens
are cope with depression. This will make it easier to get a handle on the situation if it arises.
Isolation
A common symptom of teenage depression is wanting to be alone. Yes, it is hard to distinguish between depression
and disinterest if your teen doesn’t want to spend time with family or friends. However, if activities that once
gave them enjoyment no longer do, that is a red flag. In addition, spending excessive time alone may be an
indicator that your teen is hiding certain behaviors from you. You can assume that teenage depression is the cause,
and speak with your child about it.
Abuse
Parents who are keen enough will be able to notice if their teen is abusing drugs or alcohol. Common signs include
denial of anything being wrong, being secretive, or changes in behavior and schedules. Teenage depression leads to
substance abuse 30% of the time. Don’t forget your teen may be abusive in other forms, such as overeating or
participating in risky sexual behavior. Abuse of their bodies may be noticeable by weight loss or gain, and scars
on arms or legs can indicate self-mutilation. This is not that uncommon in teens suffering from depression.
Expression
Many of those with teenage depression express their sadness through writing dark poetry or stories. They may listen
to music with depressing themes, or dress in dark clothing. The most outward form of expression would involve
constant crying, fighting, or resisting authority. These are cries of help, and not just another attention-getting
measure to annoy parents. Teenagers may also act up in class, or not show up at all. Failing grades and calls home
from the school should be followed up with discipline and counseling, or a mental health evaluation.
Seeking Help
Some research suggests that nearly 80% of teens who attempt suicide due to teenage depression seek help, either
from their parents or by seeing a doctor. This says a lot for the integrity of our teens, and their desire to feel
better mentally. Many parents or friends may dismiss a teen’s cry for help, calling it a desire to get attention.
This is a big mistake. If your teen approaches you with concerns about depression, seek help for them
immediately.
Suicide
Unfortunately, for many with teenage depression, the only way of coping is by making the ultimate mistake: suicide.
Some recent studies show that 1 in 5 teens had thought of depression, and 1 in 12 had attempted suicide. Research
also indicates that for every teen that commits suicide, 10 more attempt, but do not succeed. In addition, suicide
is ranked as the third leading cause of all teens, and is something entirely preventable. Those are scary
statistics.
Depression among teenagers is a very serious problem, indeed. The good news is that like most mental health
conditions, depression is very treatable with medication or therapy. Usually a combination of the two is
recommended. If you spot your teen exhibiting any of the behavior above, you should assume he or she is suffering
from teenage depression. Seek help immediately, and you just may save their lives.
| 
Delicious
Google Bookmarks
Stumbleupon
Digg
BlinkList
Blogmarks
Facebook
Ma.gnolia
Reddit
Twitter
Yahoo My Web
Livejournal
