Teens and Depression
Beyond the moody blues
By Rev. R.D. Brown
Depression is more than just feeling down or having the blues. It’s not a “bad day” and it’s not “just a phase”. Depression is a debilitating and sometimes deadly condition that affects the lives of millions of people every year, teens and adults alike. Your teen doesn’t have to go through a “tragedy” to become depressed. In fact the grief and sadness felt after a tragic loss is normal and not considered depression for clinical purposes. It is when feelings of sorrow and hopelessness become chronic that we call it depression.
If you are a teen, a parent of teens, or interact with teens regularly you should learn the signs and symptoms of depression. A partial list would include:
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Rapid weight loss or gain
- Loss of interest in hobbies and/or friends
- Expressing feelings of worthlessness
- Inability to concentrate
- Abnormal displays of anger or frustration
- Substance abuse
- Self Injury
If you notice your teen showing signs of depression don’t ignore them. Talk to your teen about his feelings. Be open and ready to listen without judgment or condemnation. Don’t let him push you away with “I’m ok” or “it’s nothing” if you know there is a problem. Be ready to be supportive while maintaining your authoritative roll. Stability is important and your strength provides stability.
What to Do
If the symptoms are severe don’t hesitate to pursue professional help. Counseling can be provided by psychologists, licensed professional counselors, or your pastor. A psychiatrist or your family doctor can prescribe antidepressants. Don’t worry, antidepressants won’t make your teen a “zombie”. The majority of antidepressants work by blocking the re-absorption of serotonin in the brain thereby raising the serotonin levels. (Serotonin is a natural substance in the brain that is often diminished in depressed people.)
Some possible triggers for depression include but are not limited to the following:
- Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- On going rejection by peers
- Loss of friends or loved ones
- Alcohol or drug use
- Traumatic events
- Chronic illness
- Sexual promiscuity
- Fear
Depression is treatable. It doesn’t mean your teen is “crazy” or that you are a “bad parent”. It does mean that you and your teen will have to address it honestly and take steps to address its causes and symptoms. Stay strong and pray always. Depression isn’t the end of the journey; it’s just a dip in the road.
