ABUSE MAGAZINE
How Does
Depression
Affect Teenagers?
Introduction
Depression is a mental disorder that
affects the afflicted individuals' mood and
behavior. Teenagers suffering from depression feel unhappy, hopeless and lethargic.
According to Psychology Information Online,
approximately four out of 100 teenagers get
seriously depressed each year. This mood
disorder affects all areas of teenagers' lives,
including the home, school, friends and
community. The symptoms of depression
may be more pronounced in teenagers who
are already overwhelmed with the stress
and pressures of puberty. If left untreated,
depression can lead to serious problems,
such as self-medication with drugs or alcohol
or thoughts or suicide.
tendency to lose interest in school activities,
friends and hobbies. The hormonal changes
may intensify emotions and make teenagers
more irritable or hostile. Thoughts of suicide
are common in depression. Teenagers may
talk frequently of suicide and/or death.
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How Depression
Affects Behavior
How Depression
Affects Emotions
With depression, the symptoms can last
several weeks or several months. According
to the "Teen Depression" guide, depression
can destroy the very essence of teenagers'
personality, causing an overwhelming sense
of sadness, despair or anger. During this difficult time, teens may feel that life has no
meaning. If something bad happens, such as
a family illness, death or divorce, the teenagers may feel guilt even though they had
nothing to do with the situation. Crying spells
are also possible with depressed teens, especially girls. Teenagers may also feel isolated
or alone and that no one understands how
they feel or what they are going through.
Teenagers who are depressed have racing
thoughts, wandering minds and find it hard
to concentrate. Depressed teens also have a
Depression also affects the behavior of
teenagers. Sleeping more is one of the signs
of depression. But individuals suffering from
depression may still be tired and weak after
sleeping many hours. Conversely, some
depressed teens suffer from insomnia or the
inability to stay asleep. Eating too much or
not eating enough are both possible with
depression. Some teens may overeat as a
way to medicate themselves while others
turn to drugs or alcohol. Teens may have
little interest in school or homework and stop
caring about the future. Some
teens may have poor attendance
records. With others, grades may
drop considerably. Withdrawal
from friends and family and a
preference for being alone are
also possible with depression.
Running away from home or
talking about leaving can also
be signs of depression. In severe
cases, teenagers may cut themselves or attempt self-mutilation. If teens fall into serious
depression, they may try to kill
themselves.
Source: http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4912708_depression-affect-teenagers.html
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abusemagazine.org | Idaho Spring/Summer 2014 |
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