Is My Child Depressed? Spotting Depression Symptoms in Teens

As someone who is around teenagers, you probably have noticed that they are notorious for their mood swings. Happy one minute and displaying depression symptoms the next, you're never certain which way they are going to be. However, it's important to be aware that not all moodiness in teens is "normal"; depression treatment may be needed.

Here, we look at some of the often-overlooked depression symptoms as exhibited by teenagers to help you ensure that the teen in your life gets the treatment he or she needs.

Social Withdrawal

If your typically gregarious teenager has suddenly begun coming straight home from school and disappearing straight to the bedroom, it's time to be aware of this depression symptom. Though some teens just need a personal space, doing this on a regular basis is a red flag that the teen may be in need of depression treatment.

The next time your teenager tries to stomp right up to his bedroom, attempt to engage him in a discussion. Don't mention depression, though; instead, talk about something he could do to help you. See if you can encourage your child to engage in an activity together, such as gardening or cleaning out the basement. Such exercise will be a natural anti depression treatment and will also open the lines of communication between you for future discussions about depression symptoms.

Lack of Hygiene

The onset of puberty often is a time of poor hygiene among kids who are unaccustomed to washing their hair daily, shaving, or wearing deodorant. However, if your typically spic-and-span teen has stopped bathing or taking care of his appearance, it may be a depression symptom.

Be on the lookout for stringy hair, rumpled clothes (and not fashionably so), rare brushing of teeth, and body odor. These are all indicators of depression in teens.

If the teenager in your life is showing such lack of interest in personal hygiene, you may need to subtly introduce the topic in a non-threatening way. Don't shout, "You're disgusting! March up to the bathroom right now!" Instead, explain what you've been noticing--very bad dandruff, lack of bathing--and open a dialogue. Make sure you mention that depression could be causing this; that way, you can discuss depression treatments together.

Significant Weight Gain or Loss

Though some weight gain or loss in teens is typical, if you see anything extreme, it could also be a depression symptom.

Many teenagers (and adults) who suffer from depression either eat huge amounts of food (in an attempt to "stuff" their depression) or stop eating altogether (to starve themselves as a result of feeling "unworthy").

Make sure you don't wait too long to discuss your concerns about weight; depression is linked to many eating disorders, so the sooner you can help your teen find a depression treatment, the better.