A Countdown of Myths About Teen Depression by Kate McLaughlin
From Kate McLaughlin, author of Mommy, I'm Still Here: One Family's Journey through Bipolar Disorder:
MYTH # 1:
Teenagers don’t become clinically depressed. They’re moody because of surging hormones.
It’s true that bouts of sadness are common in teens, but sadness and it’s accompanying feelings and moods pass quickly. If it lingers for more than a couple of weeks, a closer look is warranted.
Signs of true, or clinical, depression include:
Frequent or out of the ordinary crying or tearfulness.
Excessive sense of guilt or unworthiness.
A loss of interest in things they normally love.
Changes in sleep–either needing too much or requiring too little.
Changes in appetite–either a sharp increase or significant decrease.
Loss of concern about appearance.
Decline in personal hygiene.
If you recognize several of these symptoms and they last for more than two weeks, consider a visit to your family practitioner. A physical or check-up can rule out underlying causes as simple as anemia, or thyroid or hormone imbalances, and address the issue immediately.
No Teen Need Suffer.
Treatment works.
Seek Help!
Read Kate's Story on A Wild Ride.
