An Overview of Diagnosing Teen Depression
Teen depression and adult
depression are different illnesses due to the developmental issues involved in teenagers. Teenagers experience depression differently, and they may show different symptoms. However, if your teenager is showing four or more of these
symptoms of depression for longer than two weeks, he or she may be suffering from teen depression.
Is This a Normal Phase -- Or Depression?
Because normal behaviors vary from one stage to another, it can be difficult to tell whether a teenager is just going through a temporary "phase" or is suffering from depression. Sometimes the parents become worried about how the child's behavior has changed, or a teacher mentions that "your teenager doesn't seem to be himself."
In such a case, if a visit to the child's healthcare provider rules out physical symptoms, the doctor will probably suggest that the child be evaluated, preferably by a psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of teenagers.
Specifics for Diagnosing Depression in Teenagers
In order to make a diagnosis of teenage depression, the healthcare provider will ask a number of questions and perform a thorough checkup that includes a complete physical exam and medical workup, as well as a complete history of current and previous symptoms. Diagnosing teen depression also involves evaluating the teenager's:
- Family situation
- Level of emotional maturity and ability to cope with illness and treatment
- Age and state of development
- Self-esteem and prior experience with illness.
A comprehensive assessment for teen depression is necessary for effective diagnosis and treatment.
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