Recognizing Stress and Depression in Teens | A Guide for Parents

Teenage is a critical phase in the growth of physical, emotional, and social development, and there may be stress or depression at this period. If you have a child, teen, or are a teacher or caregiver of young adults it is helpful to know signs of mental health issues to help get them the proper support they need. Teenagers do not get the attention they deserve when struggling with mental health problems The importance of diagnosing them at an early age cannot be overstated.

Introduction to Stress and Depression in Teens

Anxiety and depression are two of the most experienced maladjustments by adolescent students. Stress is a natural part of life and it can be due to school workload, family issues, expectations in society or a person’s hardships. Stress as we all know is inevitable, but extended or uncontrolled stress can cause more serious mental issues such as depression. Depression on the other hand is a disease of the mood that puts a teen in a state of profound sadness, hopelessness, and disconnection from life.

Recognizing the Signs

Stress and depression may be suspected in teens for they do not always share their feelings with others willingly. Here are some key signs to watch for:

• Changes in Mood: Teenagers suffering from stress or depression have extremely fluctuating moods. This is where one may transform from being angry or irritated to sad and crying, without any reason. Sudden behavioral changes could be a sign of an illness in the mental health of a person.
• Social Withdrawal: Depression renders adolescent individuals socially isolated and reduces their affection for friends and Former interests. Loneliness can come from bullying The sudden refusal to interact with peers and friends may also be attributed to an underlying emotional problem.
• Changes in Sleep Patterns: Teenagers can oversleep or have a problem with sleeplessness. Increased need for sleep or inability to sleep is a clear sign of mental disorders accompanied by other symptoms.

• Decline in Academic Performance: Difficulty focusing, having problems with memory, or having no desire to attend classes is quite normal when a teen is stressed or depressed. Low academic achievement may simply be a symptom of emotional problems.

• Physical Symptoms: They may also complain of headaches, colds, stomachaches, or pain in different parts of the body that individuals do not usually pay attention to. These may be the presentation of some emotional or psychological problems or Physical symptoms.
• Changes in Eating Habits: Stress or being depressed can cause one to eat unhealthy or not eat at all. Weight gains or losses or changes in eating patterns should be reported.
• Expressing Feelings of Hopelessness: A person can say things like they are worthless, that they want to die, or they like the idea of dying. These are very dangerous signs and need to be acted upon immediately.

Supporting Your Teen

If you find these signs then one must tackle the teenage child gently and with sympathy. Get down to them and tell them you are there to listen to them and not judge them. Let them talk out their emotions and if it gets too much, they should consider seeing a shrink. Assertive, advice, therapy, and support group assistance enable teenagers to tackle mental health challenges.

Iluka Medical: A Trusted Resource

Iluka Medical appreciates the challenges that teenagers go through mentally and provides caring services to help teenagers and their families. If there are indications that your child is stressed or depressed, do not wait to seek counseling and a lot more from us. Rest assured that our experienced professionals are available to assist your family through these experiences delicately and professionally.