Depression in teens is pretty common, so don’t be embarrassed if you have any symptoms. It is good to talk to an adult, preferably someone you trust, about what you are feeling. Often, this includes having no energy or even eating too much or not enough. Here are some more.
Turning to Destructive Behavior
Taking drugs, drinking alcohol, or abusing yourself is never the answer. A teen with depression and anxiety might do these things, even with adults. You will put yourself in danger by doing any of these things, and the results can be long-lasting on both your body and mind. A rehab program will help. If you think you are addicted to drugs or drink alcohol often, talk to an adult, such as your parents, about going to a facility to get the help you need before it’s too late!
Depression in Teens Causes Lack of Energy
Okay, so you’re a teenager. You will be sleepy! A lack of energy comes with the territory as your body goes through changes. And some doctors even agree that teens should be left to sleep a bit longer than adults like to! Don’t be embarrassed about being tired because about 40% of teens get sleepy often. That being said, being sleepy all the time can be a sign of depression. Speak to an adult about the problem if you think it is getting in the way of your daily life.
Problems Trying to Sleep
When you get older, you will love going to bed at a reasonable time! But as a teen, night means nothing, right? It’s normal to stay up talking with friends, playing video games, and watching TV. But there might be a problem if you still can’t get to sleep when you need to. This is one of the biggest signs of depression, and it causes more issues, such as falling asleep when you should be awake, like at school! Talking to your doctor can help check if it’s depression or insomnia.
Lifestyle Causes Depression in Teens
The things in your life can seem like a massive drama when you’re younger, even when they’re trivial. But there are some parts of your life and lifestyle that can cause depression. Not everyone has these, but here are common reasons why a young person feels depressed:
- You can become depressed because of a history of genetic depression.
- Feeling down about current social issues is also a major cause of anxiety.
- Going through life changes such as a parent’s divorce has an impact.
- Comparing yourself to others on social media doesn’t help your mental state.
- Being bullied, having inappropriate relationships, and abuse causes severe depression.
Any one of these can cause big problems in your life at the worst time. When you should be enjoying life as a young teen, these can cause you to have to grow up fast. Speaking to trusted and responsible adults can help identify and remove some of these issues from your lifestyle.
You Can’t Concentrate in School
School is more important than you think! What you learn as a teenager can have a big impact on your life later on. And this doesn’t just mean reading, writing and math! School is important for social skills, too. Lack of focus and social skills will have an impact on your life. Of course, it can’t be helped if you are depressed. Fortunately, most teachers know how to recognize signs that a young person is in trouble. So don’t be afraid to ask for help from your school staff.
Depression in Teens Because of Eating Disorders
You might think it’s healthy to look slim by not eating. But you are wrong. We all have a healthy weight that we must maintain, and it depends on your height and age. In the UK, 12% of kids between 11 and 16 have an eating problem. Your doctor can give you tons of advice about this. However, you may be depressed and have an eating disorder. Maybe you starve yourself, or you overeat. Either can have severe consequences! See a doctor if you think you have one.
Feeling There is No Point to Anything
There are quite a few warning signs of poor mental health in teens, such as depression. Some are pretty easy to spot, and some aren’t. That’s because you can keep a lot inside. Some depressed teens begin to feel hopeless like there is no point in anything. It’s normal to have days like this off. But when it becomes a daily thing, you might need some help. You should also ask for help immediately if this is alongside suicidal feelings or feeling like harming yourself.
Summary
Destructive behavior like taking drugs is a leading symptom of depression in teens. There are also some lifestyle issues that can make problems worse. One of the key signs you are depressed is feeling like there is no point in anything, feeling suicidal, or harming yourself.
Need someone to talk to? The FREE RESOURCES FOR HELP below include text and talk options.
Crisis Text Line 24- hour support for those in crisis. Text 741741 from anywhere in the US and you will receive an automated text asking you what your crisis is. Within minutes, a live trained crisis counselor will answer your text. The text exchange is free, confidential and will not appear on your phone statement
Hey Sam a dedicated peer-to-peer texting service for people up to 24 years old. It is designed for and staffed by young people, it’s free and confidential, and nonjudgmental. Whatever the reason, reach out. You are not alone. You can text 439-726 from 9am-12am ET.
National Alliance on Mental Illness- Youth and Young Adult Resources
Intended to help provide young people, educators, parents and caregivers with the resources they need. NAMI also offers a Helpline at 800-950-6264 or text “HelpLine” to 62640.
