Teen Depression

STEEMIANS in the house, I know many of us have TEENAGERS around us, be it our kids or relatives. But have you ever wondered why our teens are sometimes depressed at least for days, weeks or months?

The symptoms of depression can appear during adolescence and may include changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and weight. Feelings of despair, hopelessness, sadness, and worthlessness may also appear. Other signs include social withdrawal, trouble concentrating or remembering, suicidal thoughts or actions, and medically unexplained symptoms.

POSSIBLE CAUSES OF TEEN DEPRESSION

This may include PHYSICAL FACTORS such as cardiovascular disease and changing hormone levels, as well as ongoing substance abuse which may intensify depression, if not give rise to it. GENETICS too can play a role, perhaps affecting chemical activity in the brain

STRESS
A little stress can be healthy, but a chronic or excessive stress can be physically and psychologically harmful, sometimes to the point of plunging a susceptible or biologically vulnerable teen into depression.

Stress-related factors linked to depression may include parental divorce or separation, the death of someone dear, physical or sexual abuse, a serious accident, illness, or a learning disability -especially if a child feels rejected as a result.

Other possible causes are bullying, emotional estrangement by a depressed parent and parental unpredictability.

WHAT MAY HELP A TEEN TO COPE?

**Take reasonable measures to care for your physical and mental health.

**Eat wholesome meals, get sufficient sleep and exercise regularly.

**If possible, try to recognize triggers and early warning signs of a depressive mood and create a suitable plan of action.

**Confide in someone you trust.

Did you know that depression in teenage girls appear to be higher than that of boys? One factor may be the stress resulting from emotional, physical or sexual harassment or abuse, which girls often have to cope with. A girl who sees herself as physically undesirable or who is overly concerned about peer approval may be more vulnerable to depression.

STEEMIAN PARENTS WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP YOUR KIDS?

**Recognize that depressed teens may find it hard to express their feelings or may not understand what is happening to them. They may not be aware of the symptoms of depression.

**Be alert to major changes in your child's behavior, eating habits, moods, sleep patterns, or social interactions-especially if the changes persist for weeks.

**Take seriously any comments or hints about suicide.

**Get a professional diagnosis and help your teen adhere to the doctor's prescribed treatment and consult the doctor if you see no improvement.

**Have a stable family routine for eating, exercising and sleeping.

**Maintain good communication with your teen, and help him or her to deal with any stigma associated with depression.

**Always remember to reassure your teen of your love.

Thanks for reading.