Technology and the vast rise in the use of the internet have brought so much positivism and exposure to our world, but on the other hand, friendships and relationships have also become ruined as people now keep to themselves as they value online friendships over physical relationships. They would rather stay on their mobile phone all day than have a reasonable conversation with the family members they have been with for the years.
We have severe cases of depression getting worse as the day goes by, and it is more particular among teenagers. Depression isn't a thing to be joked with as it is a serious mental health problem that could create a persistent feeling of sadness, as well as a loss of interest in physical activities. When a teenager is depressed, several factors are affected, thoughts, behaviour, and feelings are on the line.
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Depression can happen at any time in a person's lifetime, symptoms will vary between teens and adults. Issues such as; academic expectations, changes in physical appearance, and neglect from parents or loved ones, can cause a lot of problems leading to depression in teenagers. Depression in teenagers is not a sign of weakness, instead, it is a serious issue that requires a serious commitment to have them overcome.
Symptoms of depression vary based on how severe it is, a change in the attitude that could create a great level of distress at home, school, other social activities, and generally, in different areas of life. Negative presentation, low energy to issues of life,staying away from family and friends, risky behaviours, and even talks of suicide.
Depression comes in different forms;
- Bipolar Disorder (Manic depression).
- Major depression (clinical depression).
- Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia).
Major Depression: This act is beyond day-to-day imbalance of life, it affects a person's mood, body, and thoughts also. By extension, the sleeping, eating, and thinking patterns of the patient may be affected also. There is a difference between depression and experiencing a blue mood or unhappiness.
There is no single cause for depression, but environmental factors and genetics play a significant role in its contribution.
- Depression may be experienced as a result of or more of the following;
- Intense stress.
- Neglect or abuse.
- Smoking.
- Other mental health issues.
- Loss of relationship.
- Abuse, whether it is physical or emotional.
- Chronic illnesses like diabetes.
- Traumatic injury to the brain.
- Learning or conduct disorders.
Major depression comes with symptoms of; low self-esteem, feelings of guilt or helplessness, sadness, relationship trouble, suicidal thoughts, sleep issues, energy reduction, high sensitivity to rejection or failure, and aggressiveness.
Major depression can be treated, but the nature of treatment is highly dependent on how severe the condition is. Treatment includes; talk therapy, antidepressant medications, social assistance, and family therapy.
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If left unhandled, cases of major depression could last for weeks, months, or even years creating social and relationship problems. It is also a major link to higher cases of suicide. As a parent, you must learn to speak with your teenagers about the happenings in their lives, bullying is one of the major reasons behind mental health issues.
Helping them focus on their strength and letting them know how much you can make yourself available for them is important. So, try to provide a work-life balance with your kids, and try to make yourself as available as possible.
Bipolar Disorder: This type of disorder greatly affects the life of the affected victim creating changes in energy, mood, and activities. Affected victims may experience highs and lows either in a simultaneous manner or in quick succession.
Persistent depressive disorder(PDD): This is a mild or moderate form of depression that refuses to go away. When an individual has PPD, there would be an occurrence of a dark, sad, or low mood, with two or more symptoms of depression.
Several treatment options based on evidence work for cases of depression in teenagers;
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
- Attachment-based family therapy (ABFT)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy
Each of these types of therapies is focused on the type of depression, and it will require an expert to know which one works best.
References.
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/teen-depression.html
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9292-persistent-depressive-disorder-pdd
https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/health-library/major-depression-in-teens
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/teen-depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20350985
https://www.mhanational.org/depression-teens-0
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/37010#symptoms
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/parents-guide-to-teen-depression.htm
Hi, I am Tobi, a writer, speaker, relationship blogger, and lover of good music. I love making friends and learning from people. If you want to hear me speak on relationships and general life issues, you can find my YouTube channel where you can watch any episode for free, please do not forget to subscribe, friends. I sincerely appreciate every love I get from here, Kindly do well to keep them coming.