Updated on October 2, 2020
Depression is a serious illness that is all too common in teens. It’s true that any teenage girl could have feelings of being a little sad and blue once in a while, however, those feelings generally pass within a short period of time, like a few days for example. But, when teenagers experience depression, it can often interfere with their daily lives.
In addition, it can cause a great deal of pain for her and for those who love her. And, research shows that depression symptoms are a significant risk factor for suicide-related behavior. There are also several subtypes of depression. According to the DSM-5 (APA, 2013), a method for diagnosing psychiatric disorders, depressive disorders can be manifested in several forms, including minor depression, dysthymic disorder, and major depressive disorder.
Causes Of Depression In Teen Girls
Depression In Teen Girls comes during a time that involves some great personal change in their young lives. They are just starting to form their own identities that are separate from their parents. In addition, they have to deal with their emerging sexuality and other gender issues. Depression can also go hand-in-hand with other disorders, including substance abuse, anxiety, and eating disorders. And, according to recent data from the Substance Abuse and, teen girls are suffering from depression at a rate of almost three times that of boys in their age range.
Other causes can include the onset of a teen girl’s period, which can cause mood fluctuations, irritability, and increased sensitivity. In addition, external sources can trigger depression In teen girls, including bullying, peer pressure, divorce, a death in the family or of a friend, unrealized academic goals, and fear of failure.
Common Signs Of Depression In Teen Girls
Many families of a depressed teen may not know exactly what to look for, so here are some of the most common signs:
- Anxious, empty or sad feelings that persist
- Feelings of pessimism or hopelessness
- Feelings of helplessness, worthlessness or guilt
- Restlessness and/or irritability
- Loss of interest in hobbies and other pleasurable activities
- A decrease in energy or fatigue
- Excessive sleeping, insomnia or awakening exceptionally early
- Loss of appetite
- Overeating
- Suicide attempts or suicidal thoughts
- Digestive problems, cramps, headaches or other aches and pains that do not respond to treatment
Symptoms of Depression In Teen Girls
Some of the most common symptoms of Depression in Teen Girls could interfere with eating, working, sleeping, studying, and enjoying activities that were once pleasurable. Depression is disabling and keeps the depressed individual from functioning normally. Symptoms can also include difficulty concentrating, a self-loathing attitude, irritability, feelings of isolation, anxiety, reckless behavior, low self-esteem, lack of energy, sleep disturbances, suicidal tendencies, appetite and weight changes.
Accepted Forms Of Treatment/Therapy
Parents or guardians of a teen girl who may be suffering from any form of depression should take action sooner rather than later. Some typical treatment options for DEPRESSION in Teen Girls can include:
- Antidepressants
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy or other behavioral therapy
- Talk therapy
- Psychotherapy
- Electroconvulsive therapy
- A residential treatment center
