5 Signs Your Teenager is Depressed and Needs Help
It is important that you are able to identify the signs of depression in your teenager so that you can get them the help they need. Sometimes these signs can be very subtle, which is all the more reason to learn about the various ways that depression can manifest itself in a young person. The sooner you get your child help, the sooner they can start leading a happier and healthier life.
1. Change in Mood
If your teenager has been exhibiting a drastic change in mood lately, there is a good chance they are depressed. Those who are struggling with depression often become more irritable or sluggish than usual. When you notice your normally happy teen acting cranky or sad all the time, you should start looking into getting them help from a qualified professional.
2. Sleeping Issues
Another common sign of depression involves sleeping more or less than usual. Some depressed people struggle with insomnia while others have trouble just getting out of bed. If you have noticed that your child’s sleeping habits have changed in a noticeable way lately, they could be struggling with depression. A change in activity level is another symptom of depression that you should look for.
3. Low Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem is definitely something that a lot of people with depression experience, and it can be hard to recognize even in someone you live with. Some people with this particular symptom tend to constantly ask the people around them for reassurance. If your teenager is depressed, he or she could feel unloved or uncared for. The need for reassurance by loved ones is a very common sign of depression that you will need to be aware of.
4. Withdrawal
Has your child started withdrawing from you and the people around them? If so, it could be a sign that they are depressed. It is fairly common for people who are struggling with these issues to stop talking to people they are normally close with. If your teen seems to no longer want to open up to you or even their friends, they could have issues that require professional help. It is important that you find the best Depression Treatment Los Angeles has to offer to help get them back on track as soon as possible.
5. Problems at School
Many depressed teens experience problems focusing, which becomes obvious as their schoolwork tends to decline in a noticeable way. If your child is normally a good student but has really been struggling to complete assignments and meet basic expectations, they could be struggling with some serious mental health issues. Smart Brain and Health can assist you with getting your child the help they need.
Depression is a very serious problem that affects a lot of people, including adolescents. The more you understand about how depression can present in your child, the easier it will be to get them the help they need as soon as possible.
Guide created by Scottsdale Mental Health & Wellness, fill out this mental health assessment online for more information.
