Growing Pains

Depression in adolescents can be a serious matter.

“Many suicidal acts are related to depression,” says Dr Daniel Fung, author of Feeling Blue: A Guide to Handling Teenage Depression. In Singapore, suicide ranks second after accidents as the leading cause of death among youths.

Look out for these warning signs. 

1. He’s Always Moody

Due to hormonal changes in their bodies, mood swings in teenagers are normal.

“However, feeling sad is different from having a depressive disorder,” says Dr Fung, “This is marked by persistent sad feelings that affect adolescents in ways they cannot handle.

Do this: Cultivate a sense of responsibility in your teenager towards siblings and elderly family members.

A Journal of Family Psychology study found that 14-year-olds with a greater sense of family obligation reported fewer depressive symptoms by the time they reached 16.

2. She’s A Perfectionist

Perfectionism and depression can be a dangerous duo. “If it’s wrong, it’s all wrong, so why bother?

That’s how the perfectionism angle works with depression,” says Erika Krull, a licensed mental health counselor on PsychCentral.com.

Do this: To overcome this black-and-white way of thinking, get your teenager to look at the bigger picture – that she’s completed an assignment on time (and not only when she gets an “A” for it) is enough reason for an evening drive to Haagen-Dazs.

3. He Can’t Concentrate On His Studies

Does your child’s teacher complain that he’s always in a world of his own? “Less common symptoms of depression can include frequent complaints of being bored and poor academic performance,” says Dr Fung.

Do this: Encourage your teen to vocalise his emotions. “Parents and teachers should acknowledge these feelings, work on reducing their stress and help them to develop coping skills,” Dr Fung says.

This will also help a troubled teen improve his self-esteem.

4. She doesn’t want to talk about it.

Adolescents may avoid speaking up for fear of being perceived as weak. “Part of helping them cope with depression is allowing them to talk through their problems,” says Dr Fung.

Do this: Most teens love honest adult attention. (They do not want someone telling them what to do, though.)

It’s more important to build trust in them and prove to them that you care. This will encourage them to open up.