Types of Depression Commonly Found in Teens

Types of Depression Commonly Found in Teens Depression Childhood Depression Print Types of Depression Commonly Found in Teens By Amy Morin, LCSW facebook twitter instagram Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist, author of the bestselling book 13 Things Mentally Strong People Dont Do, and a highly sought-after speaker. Learn about our editorial policy Amy Morin, LCSW Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Aron Janssen, MD on November 19, 2019 linkedin Aron Janssen, MD is board certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry and is the vice chair of child and adolescent psychiatry Northwestern University.   Learn about our Medical Review Board Aron Janssen, MD Updated on January 22, 2020 More in Depression Childhood Depression Causes Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Types Suicide Depression is common during adolescence and it  may look different in teens than adults. Teens often seem more irritable than sad when theyre depressed. But, not all depression is created equal. The word depression is used to describe a variety of conditions. There are four main types of depression that commonly affect teenagers. Recognizing the signs and symptoms can be key to getting a teen treatment. And early intervention can often be key to successful treatment.   1. Adjustment Disorder With Depressed Mood An adjustment disorder occurs in response to a life event.  Moving to a new school, the death of a loved one or dealing with a parents’ divorce are examples of changes that can spur an adjustment disorder in teens. Adjustment disorders begin within a few months of the event and may last up to six months.?? If symptoms persist beyond six months, another diagnosis would be more appropriate. Although brief in nature, adjustment disorders can interfere with sleep, school work, and social functioning. Your teen may benefit from talk therapy to teach him new skills or help him cope with the stressful situation. 2. Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) is a low grade, chronic depression that lasts for more than a year. Teens with dysthymia are often irritable and they may have low energy, low self-esteem, and feelings of hopelessness. Their eating habits and sleeping patterns may also be disturbed. Frequently, dysthymia interferes with concentration and decision making. Its estimated that roughly 11 percent of teens, ages 13 to 18, experience dysthymia.?? Although dysthymia isn’t as severe as major depression, the long duration can take a serious toll on a teen’s life. It can interfere with learning, socialization, and overall functioning. Dysthymia also makes a teen more susceptible to other mood disorders later in life. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication are often very effective in treating dysthymia.   3. Bipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of depression followed by periods of mania or hypomania (a less severe form of mania). Both the depressive and manic states will last anywhere from a couple of weeks to many months. Symptoms of mania include a reduced need for sleep, difficulty focusing, and a short-temper. During a manic episode, a teen is likely to talk fast, feel very happy or silly, and be willing to engage in risky behavior. Many teens engage in high-risk sexual behavior during a manic episode.?? Teens with bipolar disorder will likely experience significant impairment in their daily functioning. Their severe mood changes interfere with their education and friendships. Bipolar is treatable but not curable. Bipolar is usually best treated with a combination of medication and therapy. 4. Major Depression   Major depression is the most serious form of depression. It is estimated that 13 percent of teens, ages 12 to 17, experienced at least one episode of major depression in 2017, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.?? Younger children have about equal rates of depression based on gender. After puberty, however, girls are twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression.?? Symptoms of major depression include persistent sadness and irritability, talk about suicide, a lack of interest in enjoyable activities and frequent reports of physical aches and pains. Major depression can cause severe impairments at home and at school. Treatment usually involves therapy and may include medication. Treatment for Depression Unfortunately, many teens go undiagnosed and untreated. Often, adults dont recognize the signs of depression in young people. If you notice changes in your teens mood or behavior that lasts longer than two weeks, schedule an appointment with the doctor. Express your concerns and describe the symptoms that youre seeing. Make it clear to your teen that you dont think shes weak or crazy. Instead, talk about a mental health issue the same way you would discuss a physical health problem. Explain that emotional problems need healing the same way physical health problems do. And sometimes, depression  requires an exam and treatment beyond what youre able to do at home. Find Help With the 7 Best Online Resources for Depression Your childs physician may refer you to a psychotherapist or a psychiatrist for further assessment and treatment. Talk therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and medication may be treatment options. Treatment will be based on the type of depression your teen has and the severity of her symptoms.