Teenage Depression Anxiety Stress And Natural Remedies
Do you remember your teenage years? It may have been the best time of your life or the worst.
For many teens nowadays there is a lot of pressure to be the best in school, at sports, be well known on social media and be in shape/good looking, etc. There are more demands today then ever before, which fosters a lot of anxiety and stress for teenagers which can lead to depression. Additionally, teen-hood is also a time when many chronic illnesses and injuries begin.
Maybe your teenager has concerns about hormones, stress, acne, digestion, weight loss, weight gain. Many of this concerns can have a negative effect on a teenagers anxiety and lead to possible depression.
You may have tried various different things or maybe other doctors and friends are telling you that its normal for your teen to feel the way theyre feeling, but its not!!
St Johns Wort: A Possible Herbal Solution
St. Johns wort is a popular herbal treatment for depression in Europe. American physicians are more divided about its usefulness.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine , St. Johns wort doesnt appear to be effective in treating major depression. But it may benefit people with mild-to-moderate forms.
St. Johns wort may have serious interactions with medications, herbs, and supplements. To be safe, always consult your doctor before taking it.
Helping A Teen With Depression
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How Did My Teen Get Depressed Why Is This Happening
There are numerous reasons why teens become depressed, and they vary from one individual to the next. Sometimes it can be circumstantially onset, such as feeling upset about a loss or hardship, but when the symptoms persist they can turn into major depression. Other times depression is a symptom of stress or trauma. There are also physical conditions that can contribute to symptoms of depression, such as stress responses that occur when there is pressure on the central nervous system or a teen is taking various medications.
A medical evaluation can help determine whether your teens depression symptoms are related to a physical or a mental health issue. Neurotransmitters, the chemicals in our brains that are responsible for our moods, can become imbalanced due to drug use, poor diet, lack of exercise, and changes in our sleep patterns we also have more of these chemicals in our stomachs than we do in our brains, so this makes a healthy diet especially important for combating these symptoms.
When such an imbalance occurs, the chemicals that contribute to feeling happy are depleted, leaving us feeling depressed. Some people have a genetic predisposition that makes them more susceptible, as does a low level of resiliency.
Suicide Warning Signs In Depressed Teens
Seriously depressed teens, especially those who also abuse alcohol or drugs, often think about, speak of, or make attempts at suicideand an alarming and increasing number are successful. So its vital that you take any suicidal thoughts or behaviors very seriously. Theyre a cry for help from your teen.
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When Its Time For Immediate Help
Not everyone with depression thinks about suicide. Many people who do have suicidal thoughts never make a plan or attempt suicide. That said, youll want to take any mention of suicide seriously.
Its time to get professional support right away if you notice any of the following signs in your child:
- writing stories or poems about dying
- exhibiting risk-taking behavior, including substance or alcohol use
- talking about dying or wanting a way out of their pain
- becoming more withdrawn from others
- saying others would be better off without them
- giving away personal possessions
If they tell you theyre thinking about suicide:
- Ask if theyve made a crisis or safety plan in therapy, and follow those steps.
- Connect them with their therapist for guidance on next steps.
- Encourage them to text the Crisis Text Line or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for 24/7 crisis support.
- Take them to the emergency room for support.
When To Seek Help
Identifying depression in teens can be difficult because it doesnt necessarily show up in all aspects of a teen’s life and can come and go. Nevertheless, it is often serious. It is a mistake to wait and hope depression will get better on its own it usually doesn’t.
Untreated depression can lead to other serious problems, such as substance use, behavior problems, and medical issues. It is important to have your teen evaluated by a doctor to receive an appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
If you’ve noticed significant changes in mood, behavior, or personality in your teen that last more than a few weeks, seek professional help to explore the reasons behind these changes.
Your child’s doctor can check for other medical conditions that might be contributing to your teen’s symptoms, too. Children who are diagnosed with depression tend to have other chronic health problems and mental health conditions, as well as other unmet mental and medical services needs.
It may not be depression, but any long-term changes in your teen’s functioning suggest a serious problem that must be identified and addressed. Its always best to err on the side of caution when the possibility of teen depression exists, because it can worsen and lead to suicide.
If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.
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Ok Im Feeling Depressed So Now What
Now that you know the symptoms of depression, some positive coping skills can be useful. All of the following techniques are supported by scientific research and medication prescribers like psychiatrists and these skills are frequently recommended as important parts of treatment even for patients who continue to take antidepressant medications.
WARNING: Do not suddenly go off your prescribed antidepressant medications without first talking to your medical provider. Discuss any questions or concerns about the side effects of your medications with your provider.
Is Depression A Serious Mental Illness
Yes, depression is a serious mental illness.
The longer it goes without treatment, the worst it can get.
Depression is often overlooked in teens and young adults because of the misconception that it is just a phase or that everyone gets sad sometimes.
If a teen or young adult is sad in general and not just in specific situations, and it has been negatively impacting their everyday life for a long period of time, it is important to reach out for professional help.
Teenage depression is a common and treatable mental illness. Talk therapy and medications are effective in teen depression treatment. Sandstone Care is here to support teens and young adults with mental health and substance use disorders.
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Helping Teens With Depression
Whenever its suspected that a teen is suffering with depression, its important to have an examination done to determine a diagnosis. A physical exam, lab tests, and a psychological evaluation will typically be conducted to ensure there is nothing else contributing to the symptoms. There are a variety of medical conditions, as well as other psychological disorders, that can present with symptoms of depression.
Once a diagnosis has been determined, the course of treatment thereafter will depend on the symptoms of the individual. For those with severe cases of depression where self-harm or suicidal tendencies exist, inpatient care may be necessary until those symptoms improve.
Typically, psychotherapy is needed to help manage and ease the symptoms of depression, and this is often paired with antidepressant medication. There are a variety of types of therapy that are effective in treating depression, and typically a combination of therapeutic approaches may be used per each individual depending on their unique needs.
A majority of therapeutic approaches involve:
- Education about depression and its possible causes
- Learning to identify any unhealthy behavioral and/or thought patterns
- Evaluating and exploring personal relationships and experiences
- Learning new, healthy ways to cope with stress, heartache, anger, etc.
- Setting attainable goals for ones personal growth and life
- Problem-solving skills
What Evaluation Might Look Like
Your child’s doctor can evaluate your child’s health, make a diagnosis, recommend treatments, and refer you to another professional, if necessary.
- A medical doctor can order blood tests, review family history, and evaluate current medications, sleep patterns, and diet to determine if there is a physical cause for the depression.
- A psychological evaluation or testing by a psychologist over several sessions can provide extensive information about the severity and nature of the symptoms, contributing factors, and the possible presence of suicidal ideation. This option is best suited for cases in which the diagnosis is unclear.
A therapist who specializes in treating teens will evaluate the symptoms based on talks with the teen and family members. They’ll then come up with specific recommendations that are the most likely to help your teen.
The process can take time. Help your teen understand that determining effective therapies and medications can be a trial-and-error process, and it might take several tries to get the treatment plan right. Also, many antidepressants take weeks to months to reach full effect.
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How Can You Help Prevent Depression From Coming Back In A Child Or Teen
You can do a lot to keep your child’s depression from coming back. Know your child’s risk of depression returning. Encourage healthy choices, like regular exercise. Know the warning signs that depression is coming back. Be sure your child stays with the treatment. Stopping treatment too soon is a common cause of depression returning.
Is My Teen Depressed
While occasional bad moods or acting out is to be expected during the teenage years, depression is something different. The negative effects of teenage depression go far beyond a melancholy mood. Depression can destroy the essence of your teens personality, causing an overwhelming sense of sadness, despair, or anger.
Many rebellious and unhealthy behaviors or attitudes in teenagers can be indications of depression. The following are some the ways in which teens act out in an attempt to cope with their emotional pain:
Persistent negative mood. Frequent crying due to an overwhelming sense of hopelessness is a common sign of depression. However, teens with depression may not necessarily appear sad. Instead, irritability, anger, and agitation may be the most prominent symptoms.
Problems at school. Depression can cause low energy and concentration difficulties. At school, this may lead to poor attendance, a drop in grades, or frustration with schoolwork in a formerly good student.
Loss of interest in activities. Outside of school, you might notice that your teen shows less enthusiasm for their favorite hobbies. They may quit a sports team or hobby, for example, or withdraw from family and friends.
Running away. Many depressed teens run away from home or talk about running away. Such attempts are usually a cry for help.
Drug and alcohol abuse.Teens may use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to self-medicate their depression. Unfortunately, substance abuse only makes things worse.
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What To Do When Your Teen Is Depressed
Youve read over the above list and are pretty sure that your teen is depressed. Now what? Here are some things you can do to help your teen with depression.
1. Talk to Your Teen
Find out as much as possible by asking lots of questions. For example, Ive noticed that your schoolwork is suffering. You want to talk about it? or Im concerned that youve been spending a lot of time in your room and not going out with your friends? Is there something with which I can help?
2. Take Your Teen to a Mental Health Professional
You may or may not be on the right track suspecting your teen is depressed. Like I mentioned, sometimes, its difficult to decipher your teens mood. Thats why a professionaltherapist, psychiatrist, or doctorcan either confirm or allay your suspicions and either point you in the right direction to get your child help or tell you to keep an eye on things and give it a little more time.
3. Explain Your Reasons for Concern.
You may want to express your concerns to your teen and the reasons why youre having them. For instance, you might say, I am concerned that you might be depressed. Heres why Then, list the reasons. Furthermore, you can say, If you are feeling depressed, I just want you to know that theres help out there.
Putting words to what your teen is feeling will validate their experience. Often, having words to our experiences can be a great relief.
4. Consider Medications
5. Psychotherapy
6. Lifestyle Adjustments
Be your childs advocate!
Dont Ignore The Symptoms
Depression is a serious issue that affects approximately 20 percent of high school-aged students before they reach adulthood. Anywhere from 10 to 15 percent of high school students will experience a symptom of depression at any point in time. It is important that you do not ignore the symptoms of depression when it comes to your teens health in Dallas, TX.
Some of the programs we offer at BasePoint Academy:
- Individual and Family therapy sessions
- Various therapeutic approaches including: expressive art, role playing, gardening and guided imagery
- Skills coaching and academic support
- Highly trained, qualified, and dedicated licensed therapists
- Life skills management and group
- Relapse prevention
- Medication Management
- Mindfulness and Meditation
Healthy interpersonal skills early interventions into your teens life will help you identify the signs of substance abuse, high-risk self-harm, and other varying levels of risky behaviors. Our treatment programs are specifically designed for each individual teen based on their mental health needs when they arrive at our facility. Call today to schedule a complimentary assessment with our team so we can help your teen on the road to healthy sustainable recovery in Dallas TX.
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Levels Of Care Offered
To meet each teen and family where they are in the journey of healing from depression, Newport Academy offers a full continuum of care at locations around the country. Our care includes residential programming as well as various outpatient treatment options. After treatment, our Continuing Care program provides support for both clients and families. In addition, our robust Alumni Programming keeps teens connected to their peers and to a network of caring professionals, through get-togethers and support groups.
What Are The Symptoms Of Depression Specifically In Teenagers
Symptoms of depression in teens may include:
- Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness
- Anger or irritability
- Trouble with memory
- Engaging in self-harm or having suicidal thoughts
If you or a loved one is experiencing self-harm or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255, or call 911.
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You Can Help Your Teenager
Keep talking with your teen.
- Give them your support. Let your teen know that you are there for them.
- Listen. Try not to give too much advice and do not try to talk your teen out of being depressed. Try not to overwhelm your teen with questions or lectures. Teens often shut down with that kind of approach.
Help or support your teen with daily routines. You can:
- Schedule your family life to help your teen get enough sleep.
- Create a healthy diet for your family.
- Give gentle reminders for your teen to take their medicine.
- Watch for signs that depression is getting worse. Have a plan if it does.
- Encourage your teen to exercise more and to do activities they like.
- Talk to your teenager about alcohol and drugs. Let your teen know that alcohol and drugs make depression worse overtime.
Keep your home safe for teens.
- Do not keep alcohol in the home, or keep it securely locked.
- If your teen is depressed, it is best to remove any guns from the home. If you feel you must have a gun, lock up all guns and keep ammunition separate.
- Lock up all prescription medicines.
- Work out a safety plan of who your teen feels comfortable talking to if they are suicidal and need urgent help.
Small Steps Big Impact
If a person feels sustained, intense, feelings of sadness or loss of interest in activities, they may have clinical depression. People also refer to this condition as major depressive disorder.
However, there are small steps you can take to help you gain more agency in your life and improve your sense of well-being.
Read on to learn how to incorporate these strategies in a way that makes sense for you.
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Common Conditions Your Teenager May Be Dealing With:
- Acne, eczema, other rashes
- Thyroid problems
- Weight management concerns/disorders
This is quite the list and most of these things will pop up in young adulthood. They can be difficult to manage alone, or your teen may be wondering if its all in their head. Its important to address these concerns sooner than later to treat them before they progress and become chronic.
The Causative Factors For Each individual Are Different,
The causative factors for teenage depression and anxiety are different, thus treatment will depend on the specific imbalances in your child, but some things remain the same for all. See my recommendations for creating the conditions for health in your teen through a naturopathic approach.
Depression In Teen Girls
Unfortunately, girls are nearly four times more likely to develop depression than males. In 2017, 20% of females reported having an episode of depression for males, it was 6.8%.
This difference in prevalence could be caused by a number of factors, one of which is that it tends to be more difficult for males to admit to having depression, as it may be seen as a sign of weakness. However, a number of other factors can also contribute to this trend.
In todays society, girls are bombarded by images that represent standards of beauty that are impossible to achieve naturally. Males are bombarded with similar images, which can influence the ways in which they treat females in general, and popular music can be hostile and disrespectful toward females.
Teen girls also face many threats in society today. One in four girls will become a victim of sexual abuse, and sex trafficking and date rape are added threats. As a whole, women are not treated equally in the workplace and by society in general.
Even though females represent over half of the worlds population, they are considered a minority. This can leave women feeling down and pressured to live up to the body image ideals of mainstream media, all while planning for college, a future career, and deciding whether to get married and raise a family. Its exhausting just thinking about all of the pressures out teen girls face, now and in the future.
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