Teenage depression

The following is a list of some symptoms we look for in evaluating depression:

• Changes in sleep pattern, either too much or too little sleep
• Changes in appetite and weight loss or gain
• Inability to concentrate
• Feelings of excessive guilt
• Feelings of hopelessness, sadness
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Changes in activity; lethargic
• Loss of energy
• Sudden drop in school performance
• Outbursts of shouting or complaining or unexplained irritability
• Neglect of personal appearance
• Crying
• Aggression, refusal to cooperate
• Use of alcohol or other drugs
• Physical complaints with no cause
• Perception of being ugly when not
• Loss of interest in activities
• Feeling that life isn’t worth living; recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
• Risk-taking behaviors

Of special concern is the link between depression and suicide. Any mention of suicide should be taken very seriously

Who is at risk of suicide?:

• A teen who has a parent, or friend who has committed suicide
• A teen who abuses drugs or alcohol
• A teen who is self critical, a perfectionist, or overachiever

Warning signs of teen suicide:

• Giving away or throwing away favorite possessions
• Sudden inexplicable efforts to “make peace”
• Recent accidents or close calls
• Unexpected and dramatic changes in mood or behavior
• References to suicide