Seeking Help for Symptoms of Depression in Teens
It is very important for all parents to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression in teens. If you suspect you are seeing symptoms of depression in your child, you should not wait to see if things improve on their own. Depression in teens can lead to suicide attempts, dangerous behavior, or acts of violence against others. Depression is a painful condition, but it is treatable if you are able to recognize the symptoms and get help in time.
The first thing you can do if you suspect your teen is suffering from depression is to seek help from a medical professional that specializes in treating mental disorders. All teens go through moody periods, but it is important to understand when things are more serious. If your teen mentions suicide or seems preoccupied with death, you need to get help immediately. Your teen may not know how to directly ask for help and ignoring the signs of a problem could have serious or even fatal results.
There are many signs that your teen may need treatment for depression. If you notice that they are becoming more isolated from their friends and family and spending more time alone, if they seem on edge or irritable, if they complain of headahces, stomachaches, or other pains that can't be explained, or if their eating or sleeping habits change, you should consider seeking medical help. Most teens, especially those suffering from depression, might not be comfortable sharing their feelings with their parents, so it's important that you learn to identify these signs on your own.
Changes in school grades and a lack of interest in usual friends and activities that used to be enjoyed can be a sign that a teenager is becoming depressed and may need treatment. Another sign that should cause concern is risky behavior. This can include drug use, drinking, numerous sexual partners, and other risk taking that puts the health or welfare of the teen at risk.
Many parents think that these signs are just a phase and that their teen will snap out of it eventually. Unfortunately, this just isn't true most of the time. Most teens will need help if they are going to get through this. Don't be afraid and don't wait to get help for your child.
The first thing you can do if you suspect your teen is suffering from depression is to seek help from a medical professional that specializes in treating mental disorders. All teens go through moody periods, but it is important to understand when things are more serious. If your teen mentions suicide or seems preoccupied with death, you need to get help immediately. Your teen may not know how to directly ask for help and ignoring the signs of a problem could have serious or even fatal results.
There are many signs that your teen may need treatment for depression. If you notice that they are becoming more isolated from their friends and family and spending more time alone, if they seem on edge or irritable, if they complain of headahces, stomachaches, or other pains that can't be explained, or if their eating or sleeping habits change, you should consider seeking medical help. Most teens, especially those suffering from depression, might not be comfortable sharing their feelings with their parents, so it's important that you learn to identify these signs on your own.
Changes in school grades and a lack of interest in usual friends and activities that used to be enjoyed can be a sign that a teenager is becoming depressed and may need treatment. Another sign that should cause concern is risky behavior. This can include drug use, drinking, numerous sexual partners, and other risk taking that puts the health or welfare of the teen at risk.
Many parents think that these signs are just a phase and that their teen will snap out of it eventually. Unfortunately, this just isn't true most of the time. Most teens will need help if they are going to get through this. Don't be afraid and don't wait to get help for your child.
About the Author:
Visit Our Site for more advice and information on when and where to get help for signs of depression in your teenager.
Posts
