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Depression in Teens
Before reaching adulthood, approximately one in five children will experience clinical depression. If you are a parent and suspect your teen is depressed, it's important to know that in teens, symptoms can be particularly hard to read. This is due, in part, to the fact that they can be similar to things that occur as a normal part of growing up.
A few of the symptoms that may occur in a teenager with depression include:
- Feeling negative or not caring about anything
- Sadness or crying that you can't explain
- Sleep changes, such as sleeping more or having trouble sleeping
- Being crabby, angry, worried, or nervous
- Feeling guilty or worthless.
Fortunately, many treatment options -- such as psychotherapy and/or medication -- are available.
(For more information, including what to do if you think your child is depressed, click Teen Depression.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD