Teen Depression (cont.)
How is Depression Diagnosed in Adolescents?
There aren't any specific tests that can be performed to detect depression . Healthcare professionals determine if an adolescent is depressed using psychological tests and detailed clinical interviews with the individual and his or her family members, teachers, and peers. The severity of depression and the risk of suicide are determined based on the assessment of these interviews. Treatment recommendations are also made based on the data collected from the interviews.
Treating Depression
There are a variety of methods used to treat depression. Your mental healthcare provider will determine the best course of treatment for your teen.
The FDA has determined that antidepressant medications increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents with depression and other psychiatric disorders. If you have questions or concerns, discuss them with your health care provider. Learn more
Teen Suicide
Suicide is a serious problem within the teenage population. Adolescent suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth and young adults in the U.S. It is estimated that 500,000 teens attempt suicide every year with 5,000 succeeding. These are epidemic proportions.
Warning signs of suicide include:
- Threatening to kill one's self
- Preparing for death, giving away favorite possessions, writing goodbye letters, or making a will
- Expressing a hopelessness for the future
- Giving up on one's self, talking as if no one else cares
If your teenager displays any of these behaviors, you should seek help from a mental healthcare professional immediately.
Why Do Teens Attempt Suicide?
Suicide is an act of desperation. Depression is often the root cause. It can make problems seem overwhelming and the associated pain unbearable. Family difficulties, the loss of a loved one, or perceived failures at school or in relationships can all lead to negative feelings and depression.
Advice For Parents
Parenting teenagers can be very challenging. Some communication techniques can go a long way toward lowering the stress level of your teenager.
- When disciplining your child, replace shame and punishment with positive reinforcement for good behavior. Shame and punishment can make an adolescent feel worthless and inadequate.
- Allow your teenager to make mistakes. Overprotection or making decisions for teens can be perceived as a lack of faith in their abilities. This can make them feel less confident.
- Give your teen breathing room. Don't expect them to do exactly as you say all of the time.
- Do not force your child down a path you wanted to follow. Avoid trying to relive your youth through your child's activities and experiences.
If you suspect that your child is depressed, take the time to listen to his or her concerns. Even if you don't think the problem is of real concern, remember that it may feel very real to someone who is growing up. It is important to keep the lines of communication open, even if your child seems to want to withdraw. Try to avoid telling your child what to do; instead, listen closely and you may discover more about the issues causing the problems.
If you feel overwhelmed or unable to reach your child, or if you continue to be concerned, seek help from a qualified healthcare professional.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology.
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, October 2004.
Portions of this page copyright © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2004
Last Editorial Review: 1/31/2005 4:16:10 AM
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