Teen depression is more than just sadness or moodiness. The clinical depression signs may indicate your son or daughter needs help overcoming challenges, facing life, or just being themselves. When it comes to the signs of depression for teenagers, what’s most important is taking action before conditions worsen. As a real mental health disorder with potential complications, teens with depression need professional help. Teens can get that support at Venture Academy.
Typical Clinical Depression Symptoms to Monitor
Teen depression is a bit more complex to diagnose than it is for adults. Teens do have changing hormones, which can create instances of sadness or mood swings. They are also still growing and experiencing brain development. For that reason, the signs of depression for teenagers may be easier to mask. Some of the most common include:
- Constant feelings of sadness, helplessness, and hopelessness
- Loss of interest in things that would be considered normal activities for them
- No longer wanting to spend time with friends or close family members
- Isolating, sleeping more, or not sleeping at all
- Irritability and lashing out without provocation
- Turning to substance use as a way to “feel” something
Parents must pay close attention to clinical depression symptoms that involve talk of dying, death, self-harm, or hurting others. These may be passing remarks, but they can prove to be dangerous. A child that is talking about these things is at high risk for having teen depression.
There are other signs that may be common with teens as well. This may include refusing to go to school, worrying excessively, and feeling misunderstood often. Teens tend to be very sensitive, but they may not be able to explain why this is.
What Causes Teen Depression?
It’s not always understood why some teens develop depression. However, there are many factors that typically relate to this, such as biological differences. Some people have genetic factors because a close family member may have depression. Many times, environmental factors play a role in the development of teen depression. This may include divorce of parents, death of a loved one, witnessing abuse, or experiencing trauma in another form.
Brain chemistry is a factor to consider as well. Some people’s brains do not form properly and function a bit differently. This may lead to mood instability for some. Poor hormone regulation can also trigger depression. This may stem from just teen growth and development or may be related to a thyroid complication.
How to Get Help for Teen Depression
The clinical depression symptoms discussed here are just the start of what you, as a parent, may see. If you feel your teen is acting differently or is talking about death or dying, reaching out for professional help right now is the right decision. Our team at Venture Academy can offer support, including providing a comprehensive assessment and intervention. We are proactive, and we work closely with family members and teens to support teen depression. This includes offering short- and long-term care programs. Some of the treatment programs we offer include:
- 30-day assessment and intervention
- Behavioural treatment
- Boot camp for troubled teens
- Drug and alcohol treatment
- School programs and education
- Electronic addiction services
Find the Help You Need at Venture Academy
Recognizing the signs of depression for teenage children is heartbreaking for any parent. Clinical depression symptoms may be disguised as just a teen being a teen who is testing the waters. Yet, when that fine line is crossed, and teen depression is a real threat, it’s better to have taken steps to get your child help. At Venture Academy, we can provide that type of help and support for you. To learn how you can call our team at 866.762.2211 or connect with us online.
