Depression
Teen depression affects an estimated one in five adolescents, with symptoms manifesting differently from adult depression – often through irritability and anger rather than sadness. Studies show that depressed teens frequently experience extreme sensitivity to criticism and tend to withdraw selectively from certain relationships while maintaining others. The condition often coincides with other challenges, as depressed teens are more likely to engage in substance abuse, exhibit academic problems, and show significant changes in sleep and eating patterns.
This article explores what depression is so that parents can better understand it and how to help their kids.
In opposition to downplaying depression as just being sadness, this video shows how we can identify whether or not our kids are struggling with it.