Help! I Think My Teen Is Depressed

A major study found that approximately 5 million adolescents aged 12-17 (20% of that demographic) have at least one major depressive disorder. Are you ready to respond if your teen becomes one of the millions? 

If you’re reading this, you’ve taken a critical first step in educating yourself. Whether you’ve been suspicious of a mental health problem for a while or you’re just now noticing some concerning signs, Dr. Caleigh Rodriguez and our team want you to have all the tools you need to help your struggling teen. 

Here’s your ultimate guide to teen depression and what to do about it. 

Understanding your teen’s moods

Adolescence is no walk in the park, even for the most level-headed teen. Social pressures mount, hormones rage and every day feels like an uphill battle. It’s no wonder teens tend to be moody and distant at times. 

It’s important to know when your teen’s attitudes and moods have crossed over from typical to something concerning, especially since many symptoms of full-blown depression mimic expected teen behavior. 

Your teen might be depressed if you notice any of the following:

• Persistent negativity
• Overwhelming sense of hopelessness
• Frequent crying
• Irritability, anger, and agitation
• Low energy 
• Difficulty concentrating
• Problems at school
• Loss of interest in activities
• Running away
• Drug and alcohol abuse
• Low self-esteem
• Isolation
• Smartphone addiction
• Reckless behavior or violence
• Sudden changes in sleep and diet

Many depressed teens struggle with physical symptoms like unexplained aches and pains. 

Your teen may not experience depression the same way their classmate does, and they may not exhibit all of the symptoms we listed. However, seriously consider any changes in their behavior.

Remember that your teen needs immediate medical attention if they speak of or make suicide attempts. Instead of scheduling an appointment with Dr. Rodriguez, take them to the nearest emergency medical room.

How your teen becomes depressed

Maybe your teen has always been a bit withdrawn, or they’ve made a 180 change; either way, you want to know what’s caused the emotional shift. Many factors can make a teen develop depression. Some of the most common include:

• Bullying and cyberbullying
• Past and present stressful experiences
• Lack of social support
• Genetic factors
• Substance abuse
• Family and social problems
• Academic struggles

Depression can accompany other physical health conditions, such as eating disorders, self-injury, anxiety, ADHD, and learning disabilities. 

There’s also a correlation between teen depression and social media use, so we strongly encourage all parents and caregivers to keep a close watch on exactly what and who their teens are interacting with online — and for how long. 

Helping your depressed teen

Untreated depression in adolescence can have life-long implications, so don’t take the wait-and-see approach. If you have even a slight suspicion that your teen is depressed, make an appointment with Dr. Rodriguez. 

We work with you and your teen to explore all possible treatment options and management strategies. Here are a few of the best to start with. 

Encourage social connection

Depressed teens tend to withdraw. You can help them reconnect by reducing their social media use, suggesting activities that tap into their talents and interests, and even promoting volunteering. 

Make face-to-face conversation a priority, setting aside time for focused discussion with your teen. Remember that talking about their depression won’t make it worse. Your concern can make all the difference. 

Lean into physical activity

Physical and mental health go hand in hand, and your teens’ depression can worsen with inactivity, poor sleep, and poor nutrition. 

We recommend that your teen get at least an hour of physical activity daily and 9-10 hours of sleep every night. You can encourage these healthy habits by incorporating physical activity into your family’s routine and limiting screen time, especially in the evening. 

Do your best to ensure your teen eats foods that support brain health and mood regulation, such as healthy fats, quality protein, and fresh produce. 

Be there

By far, the best thing you can do for your depressed teen is simply to be there for them. Play an active role in supporting their overall health and implementing their treatment plans, listen when they need to talk and be patient through the trying times. 

Your teen is not being defiant or challenging on purpose. They’re working through obstacles and need all the support they can get. 

Stay in touch

You never have to navigate teen depression on your own. We are always available to talk with you and your teen and help you make adjustments. 

If you’ve noticed that your teen is struggling with a new mental health challenge, call our friendly staff at 830-745-4631 or use the online booking feature to schedule a consultation today. We proudly serve families in the New Braunfels, Texas, area.