Depression Case

Should teens be depressed? Many people may say, “No; they are just beginning life and teens should enjoy it to the fullest potential.” Others, who have experienced depression as teens or have had a family member that has suffered from depression can say, “Depression is not something teens asked for, but the circumstances and situations of when they were growing that made it more than sadness.” Teenage Depression affects many teenagers and in order for people to help victims, one must know what it is, what the symptoms are and who to consult Depression does not have a definite definition, and can be described many ways. It can be described as a normal human emotion or a mental disorder.“In a study conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA) in 2009, 640 teenagers nationwide were surveyed on what sources of stress impacted them the most. The biggest stressor for teens was managing school pressures; 43 percent of those surveyed naming it as their main source of stress” Hafter said (DHS). Teens develop feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy over their school performance, social status with peers, and family life (Teen Causes). Also, major life changes not only with family such a divorce or death in the family; but also if there has been mental, physical or sexual abuse involved. Each can have a major effect on how a teen feels (Mayo Clinic). There are many types of depression in teens, such as Major Depression, Dysthymia, Reactive Depression and Bipolar Disorder (Types). These are the most frequent diagnosed type of depression in teens. Major Depression is identified by a combination of symptoms that interfere with the ability to work, sleep, study and enjoy activities. Major Depression occurs for the first time in the teenage years (Types). Dysthymia is a less severe type of Depression that can be long lasting (Types). Sometimes teenagers with Dysthymia are depressed for so long that they do not recognize their mood as being out of the ordinary.