Depression is popular mental health The condition affects people of all ages, including teenagers. Adolescence is a time of many changes and can be challenging for many young people. While some teens may feel sad or moody from time to time, depression is a more serious and persistent condition that can significantly affect a teen’s daily life and functioning. year. There are various factors that can contribute to depression in adolescents. Some of these factors may include biological, genetic, environmental and social factors. Understanding these causes can help parents, teachers, and mental health professionals identify signs of depression in adolescents and provide appropriate support and treatment. (Also read: Red markers for early diagnosis of depression in adolescents)
Dr. Paula Goel, Consultant Pediatrician, Adolescent Physician and Founder of Fayth Clinic, shared with HT Lifestyle some common causes of teen depression.
1. Chemicals in the brain: Neurotransmitters carry brain chemicals and signals to other parts of the body and brain. When these chemicals are abnormal or impaired, the function of nerve receptors and the nervous system changes, leading to depression.
2. Hormones: Changes in hormone levels can cause depression.
3. Genetic traits: Traits acquired from family members.
4. Childhood trauma: Physical or emotional abuse, or the loss of a parent, can cause changes in the brain that increase the risk of depression.
5. Negative thinking patterns learned: Teen depression may have more to do with learning to feel helpless than learning to feel capable of overcoming life’s obstacles.
There are many factors that increase or decrease the risk of developing or causing teenage depression. Including:
- Have a learning disability or ADHD
- substance abuse
- Anorexia, bulimia, personality disorders, bipolar and other mental health problems
- Low self-esteem due to body shame, narcissism, pessimism, peer problems, long-term bullying, or academic problems
- Chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes or asthma
Your child’s risk of depression may also be increased by family history and problems with loved ones or others, such as:
1. Having a parent, grandparent, or blood relative with alcoholism, bipolar disorder, or depression
2. Family members have major communication and relationship problems
3. Experiencing traumatic circumstances in recent life, such as a parent’s divorce, a parent’s military service or the loss of a loved one.
4. Someone in the family commits suicide.
Depressive symptoms won’t get better at home and can also lead to suicide or other problems if left untreated. In addition, make sure of the following:
- Call your local emergency number immediately.
- Teens can talk to friends, family members, their counselors or youth doctors as needed.
- Developing interests such as sports, music, dancing, pottery or participating in some social community work is helpful
- Make sure someone stays with that person.
- Take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room.
- Never ignore comments or worry about suicide.
- Always act for help.
It’s important to talk to your child at any point if you suspect that he or she is having problems and is unable to face challenges or life is overwhelming. It is necessary to visit your doctor.
