Date updated: June 01, 2009
Content provided by National Institute of Health

Also called: Teen Depression, Depression adolescents, Teenage depression

Teenage years are marked by periods of sadness, pessimism, loss of self-worth, and lack of interest in usual activities. If the symptoms are more persistent, then one is said to be suffering from Adolescence depression.

Adolescence Depression is also known as Teen Depression, Depression - adolescents and Teenage depression.

Causes:

It can be a temporary state in response to stress situations. It is seen more in adolescents, because of the normal growing process and the stress associated with it. It could also be due to the influence of sex hormones, and ego or personality conflicts with parents.

It could also be a consequence of a disturbing event, such as the demise of a friend or relative, a breakup with a boyfriend or girlfriend, or failure at school. Adolescents, who have low self-esteem, are overtly pessimistic and are self-critical, are particularly at risk to become depressed in stressful situations. The condition is difficult to diagnose and is a big challenge for parents. The symptoms include "excessive sleeping, change in eating habits, and criminal behavior, like shoplifting or stealing money from home". In extreme cases the adolescence can also have suicidal tendency. Girls are more vulnerable to these mood swings than boys.

Precipitating factors include "stressful life events, child abuse - both physical and sexual, unstable care giving, poor social skills, chronic illness and family history of depression".

Symptoms include "depressed or irritable mood, temper, agitation, loss of interest in activities, reduced pleasure in daily activities, appetite changes, weight change, insomnia, fatigue, difficulty in concentration etc.