Many of the tumultuous moods that we think are normal by-products of adolescence may be signs of depression. Symptoms of depression should not be confused with or dismissed as adolescent mood swings.
When attempts at helping your children are ineffective, then it is advisable to seek professional support, especially if the following symptoms persist for several weeks, become more severe, and/or lead to self-destructive thoughts or behavior. The following symptom list has been developed by the National Institute of Mental Health:
Persistent sad or “empty” mood, feeling hopeless
Loss of enjoyment or interest in activities that gave pleasure in the past
Changes in sleep habits such as insomnia or oversleeping
Eating disturbances such as decreased appetite or overeating
Difficulty in concentrating
Physical aches such as headaches, stomach pain, and chronic pain that have no organic origin
Low self-esteem
Decreased energy
Also take into account the following risk factors for adolescent depression:
Having a family member with depression
Loss of an important family member or loved one to death
Abuse or neglect
Isolation, lack of support from trusted adults
Harsh or judgmental parents with low tolerance for conflict or disagreements
Overly permissive parents with few rules and regulation
Family conflict regardless of parents’ marital status