Teens, Young Adults and Depression

Teens, young adults and depression are a major concern. One in five children and adolescents is affected by mental health problems and disorders. Those aged 18-24 have the highest prevalence of mental disorders of any age group.

KEY POINTS ABOUT TEENS, YOUNG ADULTS and DEPRESSION

• Depression in this age group should be taken seriously. Youth suicide is the most common cause of death in this age group.
• It can be hard to distinguish adolescent turmoil from depressive illness, especially as the young person is also forging new roles within the family and struggling with independence, and academic and career decisions.
• Both biological and developmental factors contribute to depression in adolescence. If bipolar disorder or psychosis is suspected biological causes would need to be examined.
• In tracking down difficulties, it can help to consider some of the areas that the adolescent is dealing with: school, family, peer group and intimate and/or sexual relationships.

SIGNS OF DEPRESSION IN AN ADOLESCENT

An adolescent who is depressed may not show obvious signs of depression. Instead, he or she may start to behave uncharacteristically, by, for example:

• Becoming socially withdrawn
• Falling in their performance at school
• Engaging in risk-taking behaviour ( e.g. reckless driving, inappropriate sexual involvements )
• Engaging in drug and alcohol abuse.

Sometimes a minor physical problem is used as a disguised appeal for help.

WHERE TO GET HELP FOR AN ADOLESCENT

If you think your son or daughter, or someone you are close to, might be depressed, the first step is to either take them to a GP or to the local medical centre. The GP will either conduct an assessment or refer the adolescent to a child and adolescent psychiatrist or mental health worker.

You could also speak to the Guidance Officer or Counsellor at your child’s school.

Sometimes the adolescent may not want to seek help. In this case, it’s best to explain that you are concerned and perhaps also provide them with some information to read about depression. There are also some excellent websites designed for young people, as well as online and telephone counselling services. It’s important for them to know that depression is a common problem and that there are people who can help.