Teen Depression: How Common Is It & How Can You Help?

Depression affects a lot of teens — way more than you probably think. The tricky thing is that symptoms can appear differently in teens than in adults. So, how do you know if your moodiness is just a phase or something more serious? And if you think you might be depressed, what can you do about it? If you're a teen struggling with depressed moods, irritability, or a lack of interest in activities you used to enjoy, you may be experiencing depression. Some other signs to watch out for include:

• Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty for weeks at a time

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Changes in sleep or appetite

• Thoughts of death or suicide

Several factors may contribute to teen depression. Genetics plays a role, as depression tends to run in families. But environment and life events can also trigger depression in teens. Other causes include stress from school or social pressures, traumatic life events, medical conditions, and substance abuse, among others.

The teen years bring many changes, uncertainty, and complex life lessons that can contribute to sadness or hopelessness. The good news is that many treatments are available to help teens cope and feel better.

How Common Is Depression in Teens & Why We Should Care

According to the National Institute of Mental Health NIMH, in 2021, an estimated 5.0 million adolescents aged 12 to 17 in the United States had at least one major depressive episode. This represents 20.1% of the U.S. population aged 12 to 17. The teen years can be difficult. With changing hormones, social pressures, and the challenges of high school, it's not surprising that many teens struggle with mental health issues. But depression is more than occasional sadness or moodiness. It's a severe mental illness that can have devastating consequences if left untreated.

Teen depression often goes unnoticed or is misdiagnosed. However, depression can significantly impact a teen's life, affecting their self-esteem, relationships, and performance at school. In severe cases, depression can even lead to self-harm or suicide. Tragically, suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for teens in the U.S.

The good news is teen depression is very treatable. With support from family and friends, therapy, medication, or a combination, most teens can feel better and go on to live healthy, productive lives. That's why it's so important to destigmatize mental illness and teach teens it's okay to ask for help. Parents and teachers should also learn the warning signs of depression in teens, like irritability, withdrawal from friends, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty concentrating. The sooner teens get treatment, the more likely they are to recover.

Supporting a Depressed Teen: Tips for Parents, Teachers, & Friends

Spend Quality Time Together

Make time to do an enjoyable activity together, like going out for a meal, watching a movie, exercising, or talking. Your presence and quality interaction can help alleviate feelings of isolation and make a big difference in their day. Offer a listening ear and shoulder to cry on whenever they need it.

Encourage Social Interaction and Activities

Suggest social activities like inviting friends, volunteering, or joining a school club. Exercising together is also a great way to boost mood and ease anxiety. Gently push them to engage in hobbies and interests they used to enjoy. However, don't force them into uncomfortable situations before they are ready.

Educate Yourself About Teen Depression

Learn about the signs and symptoms of depression in teens so you know how best to help. Speaking to a doctor or counselor can help you develop strategies for supporting your teen. Educate your teen about depression as well so they understand it is an illness and not a personal weakness. Professional counseling or medication may be helpful for some teens.

The truth is that depression can happen to anyone, even people who seem to "have it all." Your brain is going through significant development as a teen, so it makes sense you might feel more anxious or sad sometimes. But if those feelings stick around or keep you from enjoying life, reach out and book a teen counseling session with us today.