Haley Jansen

You would do anything for your children. Walk over hot coals? Check. Drive an hour one way to a ball game? Check. Stay by their side through the flu? Check. However, the symptoms of depression in teens can be subtle. Depression is not something that you can take from your child and shoulder the burden, as much as you may want to. Instead, it will be helpful if you are aware of the symptoms of depression in teens so you can seek help at the appropriate time. Depression in Families Depression can run in families. If you struggle with depression, your child has a higher likelihood of developing depression. Parents and siblings with a history of depression can “pass on” the mental condition to another child. Whether due to genetic or environmental factors, children or siblings of people with depression may develop stronger depressive episodes than their peers. Depression goes beyond simply feeling sad after a disappointment. Feeling and processing emotions like sadness, disappointment, and anger is normal. However, depression can last several weeks, months, or years. Symptoms of Depression in Teens Teenagers go through hormonal changes that can lead to moodiness, irritability, and social withdrawal. But when should you become concerned as a parent that your child’s behavior is more than just temperamental teenage behavior? Could it be symptoms of depression in teens instead? The following is a list of the most common symptoms of depression in teens. If your child displays these signs for more than two weeks, they may develop depression. Reach out to a counselor. If your teen engages in self-harm or makes comments about suicide or death, seek help immediately. Feelings of Sadness and Hopelessness Persistent sadness is a hallmark symptom of depression. Feelings of hopelessness, dread, and emptiness can accompany this sadness. These [...]