Tip # 2 – Distinguish between “upset” and “danger”.
According to HelpGuide.Org, depression in teens can look very different from depression in adults. The following symptoms of depression are more common in teenagers than in their adult counterparts:
- Irritable or angry mood – As noted above, irritability, rather than sadness, is often the predominant mood in depressed teens. A depressed teenager may be grumpy, hostile, easily frustrated, or prone to angry outbursts.
- Unexplained aches and pains – Depressed teens frequently complain about physical ailments such as headaches or stomachaches. If a thorough physical exam does not reveal a medical cause, these aches and pains may indicate depression.
- Extreme sensitivity to criticism – Depressed teens are plagued by feelings of worthlessness, making them extremely vulnerable to criticism, rejection, and failure. This is a particular problem for “over-achievers.”
- Withdrawing from some, but not all people – While adults tend to isolate themselves when depressed, teenagers usually keep up at least some friendships. However, teens with depression may socialize less than before, pull away from their parents, or start hanging out with a different crowd.
Your primary job is always to keep your child safe to the best of your ability. Bullying can be physical or emotional, and both can be harmful. If you suspect your child is being bullied, do contact your school's administration to raise awareness and help seek solutions.
Tomorrow I will talk about dealing with drama that is not in the "danger" category.
To Your Family,
Jane Cabrera
The Parent Success Coach
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