Depression is a mental health disorder that affects an individual’s thoughts, moods, and behaviors. Depression can affect people of any age, including adolescents.

Adolescent depression is a severe mental health condition that can negatively affect an individual’s social, personal, and academic life. Therefore, it is critical to identify the symptoms of adolescent depression early to receive prompt and effective treatment.

Symptoms of Adolescent Depression

Depression symptoms in adolescents may vary. Some may show physical symptoms while others may demonstrate changes in behavior, moods, and habits. Recognizing depression symptoms in adolescents and identifying its intensity and frequency is imperative.

Below are the most common symptoms of adolescent depression.

1. Changes in Eating Habits

An increase or decrease in appetite may indicate depression in adolescents. Other signs of depression-related changes in diet can include frequent snacking, binge eating, and excessive weight gain or loss.

2. Sleep Disturbances

Depression can cause sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or oversleeping. Adolescents may experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, wake up early, or feel fatigued during the day.

3. Decreased Energy levels

Depression in adolescents can lead to a decrease in energy. Adolescents may feel lethargic, fatigued, or have difficulty in completing simple tasks.

4. Loss of Motivation

Adolescents with depression often lose interest and motivation in activities they previously enjoyed, such as hobbies, sports, or socializing with friends.

5. Mood Swings

Mood swings are a significant symptom of adolescent depression. Adolescents may experience sudden and dramatic changes in mood, leading to irritability, anger, or sadness.

6. Unexplained Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms, such as headaches, chronic pains, stomach aches, and digestive issues, can occur in adolescents with depression. Unexplained physical symptoms that persist despite medical treatment may be a sign of underlying depression.

Adolescents with depression often exhibit social withdrawal and may avoid contact with family members, peers, or friends. They may prefer to spend most of their time alone.

8. Low Self-Esteem

Low self-esteem is also a symptom of adolescent depression. Adolescents may feel overly negative about themselves, such as feeling unworthy or inadequate.

9. Self-Harming or Suicidal Thoughts

Self-harming behaviors, such as cutting or burning oneself, may occur in adolescents with depression. They may also have suicidal thoughts, which may require immediate medical attention.

10. Substance Abuse

Substance abuse, such as drug or alcohol abuse, may occur in adolescents with depression. Misusing substances can provide temporary relief from depression symptoms. However, it can lead to further complications.

Conclusion

Depression is a severe mental health condition that affects many adolescents. Identifying the symptoms of adolescent depression is critical to receive early intervention and treatment.

Engaging in open and honest dialogue with adolescents and accessing the appropriate resources, such as mental health providers, can help prevent long-term negative outcomes of adolescent depression.