Teenage is synonymous with difficult times. It is that in between stage when your child is coming to terms with the fact that he is neither a child nor an adult. It is a confusing period, when the hormones are hitting hard and physical, emotional and psychological changes take place: as if to say you have no control over your body!
Teenage is supposed to be fun and games! Time to party, frolic, flirt and preen.How can a teenager be depressed?
The truth is, Teens can get depressed…
- Most teens feel sad and hopeless
- Every situation in life appears magnified
- They feel they have nothing to look forward to
- They have suicidal thoughts and tendencies
Pointers towards teen depression
Depression remains unrecognized amongst teens, and therefore very often, remains untreated.
- It may be confused with mood swings
- Continued feelings of hopelessness, negative thinking and helplessness
- Low self esteem
- Broken homes, peer pressure, conflict at home, unrealistic family expectations can all lead to depression
- Family history of depression
Watch out for…
- Change in sleeping / eating pattern
- Extreme moodiness
- Irritability
- Dramatic personality/ behaviour change
- Decline in academic performance
- Staying aloof, more than normal
- Smoking / drug abuse / alcohol
- Uncalled for guilt, hopelessness or unhappiness
- Withdrawing from family / friends
- Lack of interest
- Short attention span
What can you do?
- If you know a teen who is depressed or think he is depressed, don’t waste time.
- Invariably people ignore it till it takes a serious or grim turn.
- Talking to a teen may make him feel better about himself
- Discuss the behaviour changes you have noticed, with the teen.
- Make sure you convey, that you are there to listen and to help. Not to judge!
- Respect the teen’s privacy. Listen, but don’t share it with the entire family. This may cause more damage than you can imagine.
- Do not hesitate in seeking professional help with a psychiatrist or psychologist.
Being aware and having your hand on the teen’s pulse is the secret to diagnosis. Yes, teen depression is a reality! Do not ignore it.
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