How to Recognize the Warning Signs of Depression

Depression in teens can often be overlooked or written off as “moodiness” by their parents. While some teens will simply experience mood swings or struggle with other problems that come with growing up, others may be dealing with something more serious like depression. If depression-like symptoms persist, it is worth giving a second look and potentially following up with a mental health professional.

Everyone also knows of the usual sadness that is associated with depression, but there are other physical, mental, and emotional symptoms that can occur due to depression. Here are some signs of depression that your teen may be exhibiting…

1. Insomnia, hypersomnia, or fatigue -
   Any change in sleep patterns could be a sign of an underlying issue. Sleeping too much or not enough could be an indicator of this. Depression tires the body and the mind. So if your child suddenly stops engaging in activities—not because they don’t want to, but because they’re too tired to participate—it might be time to look to a specialist. 

2. Lack of interest in activities -
   While lack of sleep or fatigue could explain a child who is too tired to engage in activities or hobbies, what about a child who just has no interest? This could also be a sign of depression. Depression seems to “zap” both a person’s energy and their interests. If your child used to go on and on at the dinner table about video games, or make plans every weekend to go out with friends, and now you see them alone on the weekends or never logging on, you may want to talk to them about it. 

3. Irritability -
   Studies show that becoming irritable or angry more often could be a sign of depression. The body is changing and isn’t used to these periods of low moods and becomes ground zero for every underlying emotion to come out. Studies also show that males are more likely to exhibit these irritable behaviors, and are less likely to go for treatment. 

4. Change in weight or appetite -
   Depression can severely affect appetite or a person’s weight, making them eat too much or too little. It can also cause mood changes, which significantly affects appetite. There is a correlation between feeling hopeless and not feeling hungry. This could be because before your teen used to enjoy cooking meals, and now your teen is nowhere to be seen in the kitchen. A lack of appetite could also be caused by the physical symptoms triggered by depression. Some people experience stomach pains when severely depressed, with stress manifesting itself in the abdomen, which would make them less likely to eat. 

5. Concentration issues -
   If your teen is struggling with bad grades, depression could be to blame. Depression makes it extremely difficult to concentrate, especially when in prolonged depressive moods. Having trouble focusing in conversations, or focusing in the classroom could be enough reason to talk to a doctor. 

Depression is more than just moodiness or feeling sad. Depression can manifest itself in many ways, including changes in sleep, disinterest in activities, and trouble focusing, among others. Understanding the variety of warning signs can help you identify if your teen needs more support than what you can offer. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you’re concerned that your child may be experiencing depression or another mental health issue.