Why Are Todays Teens So Stressed Out
In my opinion, its all of the above and more, writes Therese J. Borchard, author of Beyond Blue. Most experts would agree with me that there is more stress today than in previous generations. Stress triggers depression and mood disorders, so that those who are predisposed to it by their creative wiring or genes are pretty much guaranteed some symptoms of depression at the confusing and difficult time of adolescence. I think modern lifestyles -lack of community and family support, less exercise, no casual and unstructured technology-free play, less sunshine and more computer -factors into the equation.
Borchard also wonders about the role of environmental factors such as diets of American processed fast foods and the possibility of increased exposure to toxins. She speculates that even if our brains are similar to research subjects in the past, our hectic lifestyles, environmental toxins, and other challenges may increase the stress factors that contribute to depression.
What Is The Percentage Of Depressed Teens In 2021
According to the 2021 survey data, 13.84% of teens have had at least one major depressive episode in 2021, which is an increase of 260,000 cases from the previous year. This same survey found that 9.7% of teens have a severe major depressive disorder, which is an increase of 126,000 from the previous year.
Getting Help For Your Depressed Adolescent
If you are concerned that your teen might be depressed, try to have an open dialogue about the issue. Make note of any symptoms you are noticing and bring them to his or her primary care physician. Some of the symptoms of adolescent depression include:
- Sadness or a feeling of worthlessness that lasts for two weeks or that interferes with daily life
- Losing interest in most or all of the activities they once enjoyed
- Not grooming, showering, or dressing the way they usually do
- Isolating themselves in their bedroom and not interacting with others
- Plummeting grades at school
- Dropping out of extracurricular activities and sports teams
- Talking about wanting to die or planning or attempting suicide
While many teens require counseling and, in some cases, medication for their depression, a healthy lifestyle can also help. Encourage your teen to get enough sleep, to eat a healthy diet, and to exercise daily. All of these healthy activities can go a long way toward preventing depression in those who are prone and can improve symptoms in those who already have mild or moderate depression.
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What Are The Warning Signs For Teen Suicide
Teen suicide is a serious problem. Adolescent suicide is the second leading cause of death, following accidents, among youth and young adults in the U.S. It is estimated that 500,000 teens attempt suicide every year with 5,000 succeeding. These are epidemic numbers.
Family difficulties, the loss of a loved one, or perceived failures at school or in relationships can all lead to negative feelings and depression. And teen depression often makes problems seem overwhelming and the associated pain unbearable. Suicide is an act of desperation and teen depression is often the root cause.
Warning signs of suicide with teen depression include:
- Expressing hopelessness for the future
- Giving up on one’s self, talking as if no one else cares
- Preparing for death, giving away favorite possessions, writing goodbye letters, or making a will
- Starting to use or abuse drugs or alcohol to aid sleep or for relief from their mental anguish
- Defiant behavior
- Acting violently
- Threatening to kill one’s self
If your teenager displays any of these behaviors, you should seek help from a mental health professional immediately. Or you can call a suicide hotline for help.
Depression carries a high risk of suicide. Anybody who expresses suicidal thoughts or intentions should be taken very, very seriously. Do not hesitate to call your local suicide hotline immediately. Call 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-273-TALK .
Brain And Neuroendocrine Mechanisms
Both inherited factors and psychosocial stressors can be thought of as distal risk factors, which determine the risk for depression by shaping more proximal biological mechanisms such as activity in underlying neural circuits and endocrine systems.88 The similarity of findings in adolescents and adults suggests that core biological features are shared.
Work in animals not only has shown that the immature, adolescent brain is more susceptible than the adult brain to the effects of these genetic and environmental influences,89,90 but has also identified specific brain regions where changes in circuitry occur.90 Moreover, these regions seem to be the same ones implicated in human brain imaging studies. Two interrelated neural circuits and associated modulatory systems have been closely linked to risk for depression, both in adults and in adolescents. These circuits are active in the response to danger and learning about rewards.91,92
Genetic factors, psychosocial stress, sex hormones, and development have also been linked to changing activity in this circuit,84,94 with evidence that this circuit matures after adolescence. High concentrations of sex steroid receptors have been identified within this circuit,23 and might provide a biological mechanism for why girls have higher risk of depression than boys.
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If You Think Your Child Is Depressed
If you think your child may be depressed, it’s important to talk to them. Try to find out what’s troubling them and how they’re feeling.
See some tips on talking to younger children about their feelings and talking to teenagers.
Whatever is causing the problem, take it seriously. It may not seem like a big deal to you, but it could be a major problem for your child.
If your child does not want to talk to you, let them know that you’re concerned about them and that you’re there if they need you.
Encourage them to talk to someone else they trust, such as another family member, a friend or someone at school.
It may be helpful for you to talk to other people who know your child, including their other parent.
You could also contact their school to ask if the staff have any concerns.
Why Are Rates Of Depression Rising
Depression rates are rising especially among the young. While the lifetime risk of depression is approximately 20 percent, for the general population the highest rates currently occur among young adults, those between the ages of 18 and 29, while individuals over 65 have the lowest rates.
Experts cite several reasons why the young are especially susceptible. They range from social factors, such as decreasing availability of meaningful work, to individual factors, such as lack of coping skills due to overprotective parenting. Cultural factors figure in, too. An increased concern with safety and decreased tolerance for risk has curtailed the opportunities children have for free play, in which children experience joy, gain friends and learn social skills, and discover how to exercise control over their own life.
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Teen Suicide Warning Signs
Recognizing teen suicide warning signs
Suicide is alarmingly common. It is the eighth leading cause of death for all people and the third leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 24 . The vast majority of suicides are related to emotional or psychiatric disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and others. Unsuccessful suicide attempts also are common and outnumber actual suicides.
How Is Teen Depression Treated
There are a variety of methods used to treat depression, including medications and psychotherapy. Family therapy may be helpful if family conflict is contributing to a teen’s depression. The teen will also need support from family or teachers to help with any school or peer problems. Occasionally, hospitalization in a psychiatric unit may be required for teenagers with severe depression.
Your mental health care provider will determine the best course of treatment for your teen.
The FDA warns that antidepressant medications can, rarely, increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents with depression and other psychiatric disorders. Use of antidepressants in younger patients, therefore, requires especially close monitoring and follow-up by the treating doctor. If you have questions or concerns, discuss them with your health care provider.
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Tips For Managing Stress
Managing the stress in your life starts with identifying the sources of that stress:
Talking To Someone About Depression
It may seem like theres no way your parents will be able to help, especially if they are always nagging you or getting angry about your behavior. The truth is, parents hate to see their kids hurting. They may feel frustrated because they dont understand what is going on with you or know how to help.
- If your parents are abusive in any way, or if they have problems of their own that makes it difficult for them to take care of you, find another adult you trust . This person can either help you approach your parents, or direct you toward the support you need.
- If you truly dont have anyone you can talk to, there are many hotlines, services, and support groups that can help.
- No matter what, talk to someone, especially if you are having any thoughts of harming yourself or others. Asking for help is the bravest thing you can do, and the first step on your way to feeling better.
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Signs Of Depression In Children
Symptoms of depression in children often include:
- sadness, or a low mood that does not go away
- being irritable or grumpy all the time
- not being interested in things they used to enjoy
- feeling tired and exhausted a lot of the time
Your child may also:
- have trouble sleeping or sleep more than usual
- not be able to concentrate
- interact less with friends and family
- eat less than usual or overeat
- have big changes in weight
- seem unable to relax or be more lethargic than usual
- talk about feeling guilty or worthless
- feel empty or unable to feel emotions
- have thoughts about suicide or self-harming
- actually self-harm, for example, cutting their skin or taking an overdose
Some children have problems with anxiety as well as depression. Some also have physical symptoms, such as headaches and stomach aches.
Problems at school can be a sign of depression in children and young people and so can problem behaviour.
Older children who are depressed may misuse drugs or alcohol.
What Is Depression In Teens
Teen depression is a serious medical illness. It’s more than just a feeling of being sad or “blue” for a few days. It is an intense feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and anger or frustration that lasts much longer. These feelings make it hard for you to function normally and do your usual activities. You may also have trouble focusing and have no motivation or energy. Depression can make you feel like it is hard to enjoy life or even get through the day.
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Is Teen Depression Preventable What Can I Do To Help
There is no sure way to prevent depression. But as a parent, there are a number of ways you can help your teenager, specifically:
- Maintain open lines of communication talk openly and honestly with your teen be compassionate listen empathize.
- Offer encouragement reassure them that depression is a common medical condition and nothing to be ashamed about remind them of all their wonderful qualities let them know you are proud of them.
- Give your teen unwavering support remind them that you are in this with them, whatever it takes, for as long as is needed reassure them often with words like I love you and Im here for you.
Risk Factors For Teen Depression
Risk factors that can trigger or exacerbate depression in teens include:
If you’re being bullied
The stress of bullyingwhether its online, at school, or elsewhereis very difficult to live with. It can make you feel helpless, hopeless, and ashamed: the perfect recipe for depression.
If youre being bullied, know that its not your fault. No matter what a bully says or does, you should not be ashamed of who you are or what you feel. Bullying is abuse and you dont have to put up with it. You deserve to feel safe, but youll most likely need help. Find support from friends who dont bully and turn to an adult you trustwhether its a parent, teacher, counselor, pastor, coach, or the parent of a friend.
Whatever the causes of your depression, the following tips can help you overcome your symptoms, change how you feel, and regain your sense of hope and enthusiasm.
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Reatment By The Numbers
The percentage of teenagers receiving treatment for depression over the last decade has fluctuated significantly over the years. Among teens between the ages of 12 and 13, receipt of treatment was lower than those aged 14 to 17 years old across most years and was at its lowest in 2009, 2012, and 2015.
While there were spikes of improvement over the years, fewer than half of depressed teenagers will be successfully diagnosed for their mental health conditions during adolescence. Unfortunately, untreated or incorrectly treated depression is a leading cause of youth suicide in the U.S.
Girls, who are more likely to experience a major depressive episode, were more likely to receive treatment over the past 10 years. At the highest peak in 2014, 42 percent of girls diagnosed with depression were treated. Research has shown that men are less likely than women to seek support for mental health issues from their primary care providers, and studies have indicated that this behavior is learned rather than predisposed. Boys who may be learning from their parents may sometimes feel expressing emotions associated with mental health issues, like depression, are abnormal and should be avoided.
What Is The Main Cause Of Depression Among The Youth
Many factors increase the risk of developing or triggering teen depression, including: Having issues that negatively impact self-esteem, such as obesity, peer problems, long-term bullying or academic problems. Having been the victim or witness of violence, such as physical or sexual abuse.
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How Can You Spot Depression In A Teen
The symptoms of depression can often be difficult for parents to spot. Depression is sometimes confused with the typical feelings of puberty and teenage adjustment.
- withdrawal from friends or after-school activities
- worsening school performance
Some of these symptoms may not always be indicators of depression. Appetite changes are often normal, namely in times of growth spurts and particularly if your teen plays sports.
Still, looking out for changing behaviors in your teen can allow you to help them when theyre in need.
Things That May Cause Teenage Depression
Adolescence can be a very turbulent and difficult time, even for the well-adjusted teen. Depression strikes teenagers and adults alike, and can have far-reaching implications when young people suffer from emotional difficulties that they arent sure how to manage. After noticing the signs of depression it is important to get the help and treatment you need and to understand the root of your depression. This can help to make the situation more manageable for everyone involved. While this is by no means a comprehensive list of all causes of teen depression, these ten situations can be very common contributing factors to depression.
Talk to a mental health and referral specialist today to find a counselor or therapist in Ontario or call one of these help resources in your area.
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Tip : Adopt Healthy Habits
Making healthy lifestyle choices can do wonders for your mood. Things like eating right, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep have been shown to make a huge difference when it comes to depression.
Get moving! Ever heard of a runners high? You actually get a rush of endorphins from exercising, which makes you feel instantly happier. Physical activity can be as effective as medications or therapy for depression, so get involved in sports, ride your bike, or take a dance class. Any activity helps! If youre not feeling up to much, start with a short daily walk, and build from there.
Be smart about what you eat. An unhealthy diet can make you feel sluggish and tired, which worsens depression symptoms. Junk food, refined carbs, and sugary snacks are the worst culprits! They may give you a quick boost, but theyll leave you feeling worse in the long run. Make sure youre feeding your mind with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Talk to your parents, doctor, or school nurse about how to ensure your diet is adequately nutritious.
Aim for eight hours of sleep each night. Feeling depressed as a teenager typically disrupts your sleep. Whether youre sleeping too little or too much, your mood will suffer. But you can get on a better sleep schedule