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Big Kid Parenting Teenager

Depression in Teenagers: 16 Signs To Watch For

Depression is on the rise in the United States, and it doesn’t discriminate against anyone. Once thought of as an issue that targets adults, depression in teenagers is actually alarmingly common.

Teenagers are under more pressure than ever, and they likely haven’t quite figured out how to manage it all. School, homework, extra curricular activities, studying, and all of the other activities that are packed into their short day can be downright overwhelming.

Depression in teenagers, teenage depression

On top of that, there are social issues that they have to deal with. For instance, kids can be MEAN, and we may never know what is being said in the hallways or on social media. Our kids are bothered by what is said even if we have told them to ignore it.

While some kids adjust just fine and make it through their teenage years mostly unscathed, some teenagers aren’t as lucky. Depression can creep in and affect even the smartest, most popular, and coolest kids. Our teenagers may keep a straight face but still be bogged down by something that we can’t see.

Depression in teenagers, teenage depression

What Is Depression?

It is normal (and completely okay) for your teenager to feel sad, down, or unmotivated once in a while. They may not want to do the things they normally do or hang out with their friends at times. This doesn’t mean they have depression.

Depression occurs when these instances become common occurrences and linger for longer than a few week or so. It may affect how well a teenager fulfills their duties at home and at school. The American Psychiatric Association defines it as,

a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act.

American Psychiatric Association

Depression in teenagers, teenage depression

Teenagers of all ages, backgrounds, and family economic statuses can be affected by depression. It becomes more common as teens get older, but it can still affect even young teens.

Although teenagers from any background can suffer, there are instances where some teenagers are more likely to suffer from depression. Those instances include:

  • a family history of depression
  • pressure from school
  • excess peer issues
  • family problems
  • a move to another town or school
  • a lack of healthy problem-solving skills
  • a chemical imbalance in the brain
  • a lack of self-esteem
  • teenagers who become stressed out easily
  • teenagers who are naturally pessimistic
  • continued exposure to violence
  • history of neglect from their caretakers
  • history of abuse
  • extreme poverty

Depression in teenagers, teenage depression

Signs and Symptoms of Teenage Depression

  • Sadness
  • Irritability
  • Disinterest in their usual hobbies
  • Change in appetite
  • Weight fluctuation
  • Lack of sleep or oversleeping
  • Low energy levels
  • Sense of guilt
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Self-harm
  • Feeling hopeless
  • Feeling like everyone would be better without them
  • Anxiety
  • Unexplained body aches
  • Hostility

Depression in teenagers, teenage depression

What To Do If You Think Your Teenager Is Depressed

The first step is to have your child diagnosed with depression. If you think something is off, you want to know for sure what the problem is before attempting to treat it.

The diagnostic process is super simple and straightforward. The doctor will ask you and your teenager a series of questions. After that, a diagnosis should be determined.

Sometimes, the doctor will request blood tests to make sure that the depression isn’t related to a medical condition. Once that is determined, it is time to think about what to do to help your child.

Dealing with depression in your teenager can be scary, but some good news is that depression is the easiest mental disorder to treat. As a result, almost all of those who suffer respond positively to treatment. However, for it to be treated successfully you have to seek treatment.

Depression in teenagers, teenage depression

There are two common treatment options which include:

  • antidepressant medication
  • psychotherapy (talking to a professional in an individual, couple, or group setting)

There are also self-help treatment options that you can try with your teenager at home to encourage long-term coping skills. These options include:

  • regular exercise
  • getting enough sleep
  • healthier meal and snack choices
  • avoiding the consumption of alcohol
  • teach the importance of self-care

In addition to these treatment options, you can do a couple of things on your own to try to protect your child. You can learn how to keep your child safe online, and even set up a cell phone contract to help buffer the social media issues that are so prevalent today. Another way to help your child, you can make it a point to spend a little more one-on-one time with your teenager. For those who won’t thrive in their immediate surroundings, it can be worth looking into rehab facilities for teens to get them expert help and advice in different environments created for their success and well-being.

If you think your teenager is depressed, it is SO important to seek treatment right away.


Depression in teenagers, teenage depression

Final Thoughts on Depression in Teenagers

Depression in teenagers is on the rise, and it is important to look out for the signs and symptoms of teenage depression. Left untreated, depression can lead to suicide or other destructive behavior. It can significantly alter your child’s life.

Most of the time, depression in teenagers is surprisingly easy to treat. With the right treatment, the signs and symptoms of teenage depression can be significantly reduced.

Depression in teenagers, teenage depression

Categories
Holiday On My Mind

28 Life Lessons in 28 Years

I turned 28 on the 11th (and my baby turned 2 the same day!!) and I spent quite a bit of time reminiscing and reflecting on the past years of my life. With the reflection came some of the life lessons I have learned along the way. There have been so many events in my past that I always think I would want to go back and change but, if those events never happened, I wouldn’t have been able to learn these lessons. So, I guess I should say that I am thankful for the “bad” events in my life since they have guided my learning and living.

I want to be able to remember and recall these lessons quickly if need be. When I am having a bad day or beating myself up about something, I would love to be able to come back here, reference this post, and remember all of the things I’ve learned along the way. So, without further ado, here are 28 life lessons that I have learned in the past 28 years.

Life Lessons I Have Learned

1. You have to learn to love yourself.

2. You have to learn to admit when you are wrong.

3. If you realize something isn’t working for you, it’s OK to change your mind.

4. The opinion of others SHOULD NOT MATTER.

5. You have to say no sometimes.

6. You must communicate with your partner.

7. Being “ready” is impossible.

With all things in life, you will never be completely ready. For a baby, marriage, a new job, etc. You just have to have faith and jump in, ready or not, when life throws huge events your way. If you spend your time waiting until things are perfect or waiting to feel completely comfortable, you will never be able to get things done.

8. Friends are important, even if you are in a relationship.

9. You are harder on yourself than anyone else is.

10. Your past doesn’t define who you are now.

You should consider this when you are thinking of yourself, but also when you are thinking of other people. Everyone deserves a second chance.

11. Mental health and self-care should be a top priority.

I cannot stress this one enough. I spent too much time putting everyone else first when I desperately needed to think of my own well-being. Spending some time taking care of myself and doing things that I enjoy, as well as doing things to promote positive mental health (such as supplementing with natural remedies such as turmeric) all helped along the way.

12. Be honest with yourself and others.

Speaking of mental health, mine stands in the way of my honesty sometimes. I’ll be the first to admit that sometimes when I say that I am “busy”, I’m really not. I sometimes despise myself for this, but it is easier (at the time), than saying that my depression/anxiety is standing in the way of my social life and that I just want to hibernate in my home until I’m feeling better.

Taking the easy way out may seem like the best option, but it really isn’t. People who truly care about you will understand what you are feeling, and they will respect you for being honest about why you can’t hang out or show up to an event.

13. Stop comparing yourself to others!!

14. Don’t lose your cool when people are looking.

15. Stop wishing your life away.

16. Appreciate the people who are honest with you.

Even if you don’t want to admit the truth.

17. Having kids is HARD, but so fulfilling.

18. There comes a point in life when age really is unimportant.

My husband is 11 years older than me, and we are truly perfect together.

19. Don’t settle!

Jobs, relationships, big investments, etc. Be patient until you find the perfect one for you.

20. Help others whenever you can.

21. You have to be your own person outside of your relationship.

Continue pursuing your own hobbies. Don’t let go of everything you love to do what your partner likes to do.

22. The worst that can happen is that they say no.

23. Avoid debt of all kinds.

24. Follow a budget!!!

25. Co-Parenting is HARD, but it does make life easier.

Happier kids, less stress, and just a more relaxed situation overall.

26. Never take out a student loan.

I learned this a little too late, and my job doesn’t even require a degree. I would take a pay cut if I took a job that I would need my degree for. Now, I have student loan payments monthly for pretty much the rest of my life.

27. Simplicity is key.

28. Children’s artwork DOES count as home decor.

life lessons

Life Lessons From My Husband

My husband wanted to offer some of his own life lessons, which are really helpful. Or something.

  1. Don’t zip your pants zipper too quickly.
  2. Do not lick a frozen pole.
  3. Don’t go chasing waterfalls. (Courtesy of TLC)
  4. Don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys. (Courtesy of Waylon Jennings & Willie Nelson)

Final Thoughts On 28 Life Lessons in 28 Years

Most of the lessons I’ve learned in life were learned the hard way. I’m sure many of you can relate to at least some of my mistakes.

I know that I’m missing some key lessons, so I’m sure I can relate to some of yours as well!! Leave a comment and let me know some of the life lessons you’ve learned in your years on this earth.