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Teen Depression Symptoms

Teen depression symptoms may be difficult to read, since they can vary among cultural groups -- and can also be similar to things that teenagers go through as a normal part of growing up. A major change in eating and/or sleeping patterns is among the possible physical symptoms of teen depression. Mental symptoms can include poor concentration and difficulty making decisions. Emotional symptoms can include empty or hopeless feelings and worry that a parent may die. There are also some behavioral symptoms of teen depression, such as substance abuse.

 

An Overview of Teen Depression Symptoms

Depression in teenagers is more than just having the "blues" now and then; it is a persistent condition in which a teenager may suffer from low self-esteem and have a hard time getting along with others or coping with everyday activities and responsibilities.
 
But teen depression symptoms can be hard to read. This is because depression symptoms can be similar to those that occur as part of growing up. For example, you may mistake a sleep disturbance, which can be a symptom of depression, for a late-night television habit; or your teen may only reveal her sadness in writings that contain morbid themes. Teens may say they are "bored" when, in fact, they are depressed. In addition, symptoms of depression may vary among cultural groups. Teens in some groups experience sadness or guilt; while others experience more physical symptoms, such as headaches and nervousness.
 

Specific Teen Depression Symptoms

Teenagers experience depression differently than adults and they may show different symptoms. For example, the depressed teenager may sulk, get into trouble at school, feel misunderstood, or be negative or grouchy. However, your teenager may be suffering from teen depression if he or she is showing four or more of the following symptoms for longer than two weeks:
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD