Is it teenage blues or depression?

The two of the most common mental health issues faced by teenagers today are depressiondefine and anxiety. Depression in teenagers is not always easy to spot.

One in every five teenagers is now at risk of developing serious depressiondefine and over 5% of teenagers kill themselves every year. The cause of the suicides can be linked back to depression.

Depression is an illness which steals away teenagers of their ability to enjoy life and can affect children and young people of any age, with girls the most likely to suffer. Females are almost twice as likely to develop a depressive illness and unfortunately this tend to extract into adulthood as well. Girls worry more than boys about their looks, personal problems and romantic relationships. Sometimes social pressures and gossip can be subtle but still very hurtful.

The likelihood of young people developing depression may also increase if they have family history of depression or if they've suffered a major life stress such as school failure, family break up, child abuse, loss of parents, alcoholic parents or broken relationship. If teenage depression is left untreated that it can lead to problems at home and school, drug abuse, self-loathing—even irreversible tragedy such as homicidal violence or suicide.

Signs of depression

# Feeling of sadness or hopelessness

# Aggressive, impulsive or reckless behaviors

# Tearfulness or frequent crying

# Behavioral problems and delinquency

# Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed

# Overeating or loss in appetite

# Physical aches and pains

# Excessive guilt/ anxiety

# Irritable or restless

# Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping

# Fatigue or lack of energy

# Poor concentration

# Withdrawal from friends and family

# Increase drug and alcohol use

# Suicidal thoughts

Tips for parents

Simple and effective way is to talk to your teenager. Young people suffering from depression are not always able to ask for help. You as a parent must be able to differentiate between normal teenage moodiness blue and depression, though its not always easy.

* Show love and concern.

* Engage your young child in conversation, and listen carefully to all they have to say.

* Make them realize that you are there for them, fully and unconditionally.

* Avoid offering unsolicited advice or ultimatums as well.

* Spend time together.

* Encourage your child to seek help and if he/she denies and you see depression's danger sign seek professional help.

* Most importantly parents should never ignore comments about suicide or behavior such as giving away special belongings.