Teen Depression.

How To Overcome ?

Teen depression isn’t just bad moods & occasionally melancholy. Depression is a serious problem that impacts every aspect of a teen’s life. It can destroy the very essence of a teenager’s personality, causing an overwhelming sense of sadness, despair, or anger. Left unthreated, teenage depression can lead to problems at home and school, drug abuse, self-loathing – even ineversible tragedy such as homicidal violence or suicide. The teen years are tough, but most teens balance the requisite angst with good friendships, success in school or outside activities, and the development of a strong sense of self.

Fortunately, teenage depression can be threated. As a concerned parent, teacher, or friend, there are many things you can help. Start by learning the symptoms of depression & expressing concern when you spot warning signs.Talking about the problem & offering support can go a long way toward getting them back on track.

Signs & Symptoms of Teen  Depression :

·        Sadness or hopelessness

·        Irritability, anger, or hostility

·        Tearfulness or frequent crying

·        Withdrawal from friends and family

·        Loss of interest in activities

·        Changes in eating and sleeping habits

·        Restlessness and agitation

·        Feelings of worthlessness and guilt

·        Lack of enthusiasm and motivation

·        Fatigue or lack of energy

·        Difficulty concentrating

·        Thoughts of death or suicide

Effects of Teen Depression :

Unthreated Depression Can Lead To …

·        Problems at school :  can cause low energy & concentration difficulties, poor attendance, a drop in grades or frustration with schoolwork in a formerly good student.

·        Running away

·        Substance abuse :  They may use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to "self-medicate" their depression which makes things worse.

·        Low self-esteem : can trigger & intensify feelings of ugliness, shame, failure & unworthiness.

·        Eating disorders : Anorexia, Bulimia, binge eating & yo-yo dieting

·        Internet addiction : Teens may go online to escape from their problems. But excessive computer use only increases their isolation & makes them more depressed.

·        Sef-injury : Cutting, burning etc.

·        Reckless behavior :  reckless driving, out-of-control drinking.

·        Violence

·        Suicide

Tips For Talking To  A Depressed Teen :

·        Offer support : Let them know you are there for them, fully & unconditonally.

·        Be gentle but persistent

·        Listen without lecturing

·        Validate feelings : Simply acknowledge the pain and sadness they are feeling.

Risks Of Teenage Antidepressant Use :

In severe cases of depression, medication may help ease symptoms. However, antidepressants aren’t always the best treatment option. Antidepressants were designed and tested on adults, so their impact on the youthful, developing brain is not yet completely understood. Some researchers are concerned that the use of drugs such as Prozac in children and teens might interfere with normal brain development. The human brain is developing rapidly in young adults, and exposure to antidepressants may impact that development – particularly the way the brain manages stress and regulates emotions.

@lynjyctrz

Source : http :// http://www.helpguide.org/

"Good humor is a tonic for mind and body. It is the best antidote for anxiety and depression. It is a business asset. It attracts and keeps friends. It lightens human burdens. It is the direct route to serenity and contentment. "

— Grenville Kleiser

"Depression is a prison where you are both the suffering prisoner and the cruel jailer. "

— Dorothy Rowe