Dangers of Untreated Depression in Teens

Dangers of Untreated Depression in Teens Depression Childhood Depression Print The Dangers of Untreated Depression in Teens By Kathryn Rudlin, LCSW Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on January 19, 2020 Depression Overview Types Symptoms Causes & Risk Factors Diagnosis Treatment Coping ADA & Your Rights Depression in Kids Richard Clark / Getty Images When depression in teens is left untreated, the consequences can be severe, and in some cases, deadly. Like other illnesses, depression continues to get worse when untreated. Problems That Depressed Teenagers May Face Teens who have depression are at high risk to develop many serious problems as they struggle to cope with the emotional pain they are feeling. Although the behaviors described below are not specific to depression, they may raise some suspicion for the presence of depression or other mood disorders. Behavior Problems at Home Teens may begin to withdraw from family members for a number of reasons. But depression can lead to feelings of anger and irritability, which can result in an ongoing negative attitude or even defiance. Symptoms of depression can also cause people to feel that they are unlovable or unwanted. Problems Competing in Sports Fatigue and lack of energy are common symptoms of depression. Because of low energy levels, teens may find it more difficult to compete in sports or physical education courses. Other common symptoms such as irritability, lack of confidence, and difficulties getting along with peers can make taking part in group sports a challenge. Declining School Performance Depression can make it hard for teenagers to function fully in academic settings. Symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, lack of interest, fatigue, mood swings, and worthlessness can impair school performance. Dropping grades are sometimes a sign that a teen may be struggling with symptoms of depression. Social Issues Depression can make it difficult to relate to others. People often feel worthless or unworthy of attention from other people. People who are depressed also tend to withdraw socially, which can further contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Substance Use People sometimes turn to drugs and alcohol in an effort to self-medicate, self-treat sleeping difficulties, cope with suicidal thoughts. Feelings of depression may lead teens to try drugs or alcohol, and continued use may contribute to continued feelings of depression. One study found that symptoms of depression were linked to the initiation of drug use by teens.?? Depressed Teens and Alcohol Use Risky Behavior Depression may also increase risky behaviors in teens. Such actions might include things like driving carelessly, having unprotected sex, or involvement in illegal activities. The consequences of these actions can often be devastating as well as life-altering. Self-Harm Behaviors Self-injury behaviors involve hurting oneself deliberately in an attempt to try to express or control inner pain. These actions can include cutting, burning the skin, headbanging, self-hitting, hair pulling, and skin picking. Signs of self-harm can include always wearing long-sleeves, unexplained cuts or bruises, impulsive or risky behaviors, and repeatedly rubbing areas of the body. The Warning Signs of Self-Injury Violence Towards Others Self-loathing can develop into directing anger and rage onto others. This acting out behavior will often have consequences that lead the teen to more depressive episodes. Aggression, anger, and irritability can cause friends and family to withdraw, leaving the teen even more isolated and lonely. Continued Depression One serious consequence associated with untreated depression in teens is the continuation or worsening of depression symptoms. As teens get older, they may experience recurring episodes of depression or their depressive symptoms may become more severe. The longer this continues, the more of an impact it will have on a teens ability to function. They may become increasingly isolated from friends and family, grades may suffer, and they may find it difficult to complete normal daily tasks. Untreated depression can also disrupt sleep patterns. Research has shown that sleep problems can both contribute to the onset of depression and that depression then exacerbates sleep disturbances.?? Suicide Threats or Attempts Depressed teens have a high rate of suicide due to experiencing significant emotional pain that they want to stop. According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the second leading cause of death for teens in the U.S.?? Depression is a major risk factor for teen suicide. Other risk factors include family history, trauma, abuse, life stress, eating disorders, bullying, and drug or alcohol misuse. Untreated depression can affect teens in devastating ways which makes it critically important to get help for a teen who is showing signs of this condition. Teen Suicide Warning Signs and Prevention Ways Parents Can Help Because of the potential consequences of untreated depression in teens, its critical for parents to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms, which can be different from depression in adults. While teens can be moody in general, parents should be alert to signs that their child is experiencing symptoms of depression. Depression treatments are effective and can significantly improve your childs quality of life. Know the Signs Common symptoms of depression in teens include: SadnessMood swingsFrequent bouts of cryingHopelessnessFeeling worthlessLoss of interest in activitiesWithdrawing from friends and familyAppetite and weight changesIrritabilityTrouble concentratingChanges in sleep habitsTalking about death or suicide Facts About Teen Depression Get Help If you suspect that your teen is depressed or experiencing symptoms of depression, the first thing you should do is talk to your childs pediatrician. A doctor can evaluate your child and check for any underlying medical causes that may be contributing to symptoms. Your childs pediatrician can also make recommendations for treatment, including prescribing antidepressant medications or referring you to a psychiatrist or other mental health professional for further treatment. Treatment options often depend on the nature and severity of your teens symptoms. Milder symptoms may respond well to active support and lifestyle modifications. More moderate to severe cases may require psychotherapy, medication, or both. Be Supportive Parents should always take symptoms of teen depression seriously. Talk to your child, listen to what they have to say, and take their feelings seriously. Even if you dont understand what they are going through, never be dismissive of their emotions or experiences. By being a source of understanding and support, your child may be more willing to open up to you and accept help. If you think that your child may be having suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255  to talk to a trained professional in your area. How to Help Your Depressed Teenager