Definition Depression is a continuing feeling of sadness, despondency, or hopelessness. The feeling persists and affects daily living. The rate of depression among adolescents may be as high as one in eight.
What is going on in the body? Adolescence is a period of transition from childhood to adulthood. Teens have many physical, psychological, emotional, and social changes during this time. The changes can be overwhelming. Depression can interfere with daily activities. School grades can suffer. Teens can lose interest in friends. They may not enjoy activities and hobbies.
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition? The most common signs of depression in adolescents are:
What are the causes and risks of the condition? Examples of causes and risks of depression in adolescence include:
divorce of parents
break-up with significant other
low self-esteem
family history of depression
alcohol or drug abuse
major trauma
What can be done to prevent the condition? Depression can lead to suicide. It is important to recognise and treat the condition early. Teens should be encouraged to talk to someone if they are concerned about depression. This concern can be about themselves or a friend. There are many people who they can talk to including:
a psychologist
a school counsellor
parents or a trusted family member
a family doctor
a clergy member
a professional at a mental health centre
How is the condition diagnosed? Adolescents who have symptoms of depression should see a child and adolescent psychiatrist. Diagnosing depression includes psychological and laboratory tests and consultation with other medical specialists.
What are the long-term effects of the condition? There is a strong connection between depression and suicide in adolescents. Suicide is the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 15 and 24 in some states of Australia.
What are the risks to others? This is not a contagious condition.
What are the treatments for the condition? The two most common ways of treating depression in adolescents are with medications and psychotherapy. Often a combination is used. Occasionally a person must be hospitalised for intense treatment or for his or her own safety. Antidepressant medications can help with symptoms. It may take 2 to 4 weeks before a person feels that the medication is helping. Psychotherapy can help a person understand why they are depressed. It can help the person learn how to handle future stressful situations. Therapists help people look beyond the problem and explore feelings. There must be trust, respect, and confidence between the therapist and the person.
What are the side effects of the treatments? Antidepressants may cause mild and usually temporary side effects in some people. The most common side effects are:
dry mouth
constipation
dizziness
drowsiness
agitation
nausea
What happens after treatment for the condition? Depression usually responds to treatment with medication and psychotherapy.
How is the condition monitored? The monitoring of symptoms and signs is similar to the treatment of all depression. Regular review by the family doctor or mental health professional is necessary. Ongoing education is necessary to ensure compliance. Relapses need to be assessed on their merits. Medication may need to be increased or restarted. The patient should be monitored for at least twelve months after the resolution of all symptoms.
Author: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS Reviewer: eknowhow Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr John Hearne Last Updated: 19/02/2005 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
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