The teen years are full of physical, mental, and social growth and change that can quickly become overwhelming. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), new research indicates that teen depression has nearly doubled since 2019, affecting almost one in four teens between 12 and 17. Untreated teenage depression will only worsen and lead to more significant problems now and later in life. Luckily, depression is highly treatable.
Imagine Nampa was created to address the increase in adolescent mental health issues and the need for teen-specific treatment programs. We specialize in providing top-rated outpatient mental and behavioral health services for teens ages 12 to 17. Our teen depression treatment program offers support, guidance, and effective treatment in a safe, inclusive environment explicitly designed with teens in mind. Call 888.503.4604 to discover how we can help your teen.
Learn to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Teen Depression
While the exact causes are unknown, depression is likely the cause of a combination of genetic, intrapersonal, biological, and environmental factors. School pressure, social pressure, physical growth, and hormonal changes are a few factors contributing to teenage moodiness and angst. Recognizing the difference between typical teen behavior and a mental health issue like clinical depression can be challenging.
Parents, teachers, coaches, and teens themselves need to learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of teen depression so it can be addressed before spiraling out of control. Mental health issues like depression impact everyone differently. Still, there are some signs and symptoms of depression that appear to occur across the board, including, but not limited to:
- Sadness for no apparent reason, most of the time
- Significantly decreased energy or motivation
- Excessive sleepiness, or staying up all night and sleeping all day
- Generalized apathy
- Irresponsible behavior, such as skipping school, not doing homework, or ignoring responsibilities
- Frequent somatic complaints, like headaches, backaches, stomachaches, or fatigue
- Excessive or inappropriate guilt
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Withdrawal from social activities or isolation at home
- Using alcohol or drugs or being sexually promiscuous
- Rebellious behaviors or illegal activity
Other typical signs of teenage depression include significant changes in school performance, eating habits, personal hygiene, participation in activities, friends, and preoccupation with death and dying. As parents, you know your child best. If you feel like something is “off” with your teen, follow your instincts. Talk to your teen about your concerns and reach out for professional help.
What Are the Benefits of Depression Programs for Teens?
Teen depression typically has an onset around age 12 and can have both short- and long-term consequences, specifically if left untreated. The most immediate and significant benefit of depression treatment for teens is that it can save lives. Depressed teens are at higher risk for suicide due to poor impulse control and limited foresight.
Short-term benefits of depression programs for teens include the following:
- Improved concentration
- Healthier sleeping and eating habits
- Significant reduction in self-harm or suicidal thoughts
- Increased energy
- Improved ability to relax
- Enhanced interest in social connections and activities
- Reduced feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt
Long-term benefits of depression programs for teens include the following:
- Increased self-worth and self-awareness
- Improved coping, communication, and life skills
- Stronger emotional regulation and executive functioning skills
- A heightened sense of purpose and motivation
- Improved parent-child relationships
- Greater sense of trust in relationships
- Enhanced resilience and self-compassion
- Overall improved well-being
When teens have education about depression, know how to identify triggers, and can draw on healthy coping skills, they are more equipped to manage life’s challenges in healthy ways, both now and in the future.
Reach Out to Imagine Nampa for Teen Depression Treatment
Depression impacts millions of teens. When left undetected and untreated, teens struggle to find stability. Worsening symptoms can significantly impact daily functioning and increase the risk of self-harm and suicide. A depression treatment program designed specifically for teens can provide direct support to help manage a crisis and provide in-depth treatment.
At Imagine Nampa, we are committed to helping teens overcome the impacts of depression by providing comprehensive, holistic mental health treatment. Contact our team at 888.503.4604 to learn more about the benefits of depression treatment and how we can help your teen and family. You can also fill out our online form and let us get back to you.