Would you be able to tell the difference between your teen being moody and them suffering from a major depressive episode? Adolescence is a development stage marked by rapid physical, emotional, and social changes. Mood swings are common and to be expected. But this time can also lend itself to mental health challenges like depression. Over 20% of adolescents report experiencing a major depressive episode. As a parent it is important to know the signs and symptoms of depression as well as how to best support your teen when they are struggling. At Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center we are dedicated to helping teenagers overcome behavioral health challenges and lead healthier lives. 

Signs & Symptoms of Adolescent Depression

Recognizing depression in teenagers can be challenging, as the symptoms often overlap with typical teenage behavior. However, there are specific signs parents can keep an eye out for: 

Emotional Changes:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness
• Irritability or frustration, even over small matters
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Frequent thoughts of death or suicide
  
  

Behavioral Changes:

• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Decline in academic performance
• Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleeping)
• Changes in appetite
• Substance abuse
  
  

Physical Symptoms:

• Unexplained aches and pains
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Weight Gain or Loss

If you notice these symptoms in your teen, it could be a sign of something more serious and you should seek professional assistance.

Causes of Adolescent Depression

Several factors can contribute to the development of depression in teenagers, including:

Genetic Factors:

• A family history of depression can increase the risk.

Biological Changes:

• Hormonal shifts during puberty can impact mood.

Environmental Factors:

• Stressful life events, such as bullying, trauma, or family issues, can trigger depression.

Psychological Factors:

• Low self-esteem, perfectionism, and difficulty coping with stress can also play a role.

Solutions for Adolescent Depression

Addressing depression in teenagers requires a comprehensive approach. Here are some effective strategies:

Professional Therapy:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps teenagers identify and change negative thought patterns.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Focuses on building skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
  
  

Medication:

• Antidepressant medications may be prescribed, but should always be monitored by a healthcare professional.
  
  

Lifestyle Changes:

• Encouraging regular physical activity
• Promoting healthy eating habits
• Ensuring adequate sleep
  
  

Support Systems:

• Fostering open communication within the family
• Building a strong support network of friends, teachers, and counselors

How Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center Can Help

At Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center, we specialize in treating adolescent mental health issues through our dual-diagnosis treatment program. Our services include:

1. Individualized Treatment Plans: Each teen receives a personalized assessment to determine the most effective course of action.
2. Integrated DBT Platform: Our entire team is trained in DBT to ensure consistent support for our residents.
3. Family Involvement: We offer family therapy sessions to help rebuild relationships and create a supportive home environment.
4. Experiential Therapies: Including yoga, equine therapy, and adventure therapy to promote healing and personal growth.
   
   

Our family-owned facility provides a safe, nurturing environment where teenagers can focus on recovery. Located on a peaceful 65-acre campus in Oxford, MS, Stonewater offers a respite from the stressors of daily life, allowing teens to heal and thrive.

Call Today

Recognizing and addressing adolescent depression is a proactive step towards maintaining the well-being of your teen. At Stonewater, we are committed to helping young adults overcome depression and build a brighter future. If you believe your child may be struggling with their mental health, please reach out to us for guidance and support.

For more information on our services and how we can help, call us today.