Recognizing Teen Depression Alaska

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Depressed moods: This is one of the more recognizable aspects of teen depression. A teen who was usually happy and upbeat is now withdrawn, quiet and sad. If this type of mood is persistent, there is probably something underlying the mood: depression.

Loss of interest/pleasure in normal activities: A teen who was once first in line for concerts or star of the basketball team who suddenly stops listening to music or going to practice could be cause for concern. Depression can affect activities that usually bring happiness to a teen. Significant weight loss/gain: The teenage years affect the body, causing many changes, including weight loss or gain. However, if the loss is significant, or occurs over an extremely short amount of time, there might be something more going on than "teenage growth." A teen might turn to food for comfort, or turn away from food due to loss of appetite.Insomnia/excessive sleeping: The stereotype of teens is that they love their sleep. However, this could also be due to something more worrisome. Teens that are depressed will often sleep excessively, or barely sleep, consumed with their thoughts of depression.Poor performance in school: Just as an adult might struggle at work if they are depressed, a teen will often struggle at school if depressed. Homework becomes unimportant and teens can have problems concentrating while in class.Irritability, anger, restlessness: A teen who is depressed will often have difficulty with the relationships that he or she has. It can cause a teen to lash out and be irritable or angry as a reflection of his frustration with his depression.

Suicidal thoughts: Sometimes the depression is so overwhelming that teens feel the only way to deal with it will be to end their own lives. Any mention of suicide, whether it's just a statement or a plan, should be taken seriously. There are various hotlines that teens can go to for help:

• 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)...

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  Author: Sarah Molitor