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Teenage Depression

Posted on November 21, 2017November 28, 2017 by Seunghyeon Shim

Teenage depression is a real mental health issue that is growing
[Source: Health Aim]
Although many view teenage depression as a mere transition from childhood to adulthood, it can lead to permanent damage to one’s social, mental, and physical life. It is unnoticeable to others and also to the carrier at first, but as the stages of depression progresses, it becomes more severe and can possibly lead to a drastic outcome: suicide.

The causes of depression can arise from various sources such as  family, friends, and other social interactions. An adolescent might have an abusive or dissociated relationships with his or her parents or siblings. Moreover, they might experience family separation or other major events that could affect one’s developmental stage. Bullying, isolation, and racism can also be the cause of teen depression in the modern era.

According to Time Magazine, cell phones can also encourage depression as teens interact with others through social media. Cell phones also make adolescents to “feel hopeless or seriously consider suicide.” The research shows that there isn’t a clear connection between mental health and the use of cell phones, but the researchers assure that there is something that is prompting depression in teenagers by the use of their electrical devices (Time). Because the adolescents are more likely to experience mood shifts due to their underdeveloped impulse control, everything can be the cause of teen depression nowadays.

2015 data showing the percentage of teenagers prone to depression according to their gender, age, and race
[Source: National Institute of Mental Health]
To prevent the negative consequences of teenage depression, it is highly important to recognize the various symptoms which include low self-esteem, smartphone addiction, quick irritation, drug and alcohol abuse, issues at social interactions, and violence (helpguide.org). Additionally, “changes in sleep, appetite, energy level, [and] concentration” also reveal that the adolescents might be going through unfavorable changes in their life (National Institutes of Health). If there are dramatic behavioral changes seen in a teen, it might be a warning sign of depression.  

It is impossible to resolve teenage depression instantly; however, through the help of therapists, medication, and also support from close peers and families, it is possible to prevent further damage to their mental health and gradually heal their depression as well.

As a teenager, I would like to encourage others who are undergoing difficulties through the words of Helen Keller:  “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”

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Seunghyeon Shim

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