Sadness is an emotional reaction to a specific and difficult-to-face event or experience. It is a normal and expected reaction to the situation. The cause is clear, it lasts for a short period, and the feeling is not constant.
It usually improves when the stressor or trigger situation disappears or with the passing of time. It tends to resolve on its own with the support of friends and family. Although adolescents may be sad, they can still find enjoyment in some activities and cope with their daily routines.
When does sadness decome depression?
- Duration: When adolescents are constantly low for longer than two weeks and the mood does not lift.
- Concentration Issues: When they cannot concentrate, retain information, or pay attention.
- Appetite Changes: When they do not feel like eating and may lose significant weight. In some cases, depression can also present with episodes of overeating.
- Persistent Sadness: When the feeling of sadness does not go away and interferes with everyday activities.
- Slowed Responses: When they become slower in responding and in their movements.
- Lack of Enjoyment: When they cannot remember the last time they enjoyed anything.
- Fatigue: When they are tired all the time with low energy and lack motivation. They may be delayed in schoolwork.
- Forgetfulness: When they become forgetful and find it difficult to make decisions.
- Emotional Numbness: When they feel emotionally numb.
- Feelings of Hopelessness: When they feel hopeless, helpless, and worthless, with low self-esteem and confidence.
- Sleep Issues: When they cannot sleep at night, especially if they wake up and cannot go back to sleep. In some cases, they may oversleep and avoid coming out of their rooms.
- Neglect: When they neglect themselves.
- Suicidal Thoughts: When they do not see life as worth living.
Possible factors contributing to depression
- Prolonged Stress: Depression can occur when adolescents have tried to be strong for too long.
- Substance Use: Alcohol and illicit drugs can be a direct cause of depression or a coping mechanism for symptoms.
- Guilt: Having strong feelings of guilt, sometimes without a clear reason.
- Traumatic Childhood: A difficult, neglected, or traumatic childhood can predispose teens to depression.
- Unstable Family Environment: An unstable family environment can increase the risk of depression.
- Family History: Depression can run in families.
In some cases, the cause of depression may be obvious, but this is not usually the case. There is often a combination of factors, and it varies for each person
Dr Emma Allende
How Can Parents Help and Prevent Depression in Their Teens?
- Positive Parenting: Following the principles of positive parenting can be helpful.
- Encourage Open Dialogue: Talk to your teens about their feelings without judgment or criticism. Build a positive relationship based on mutual respect.
- Provide Guidance: Use guidance instead of punishment. Let them feel supported.
- Promote Healthy Habits: Encourage healthy eating and sleeping habits, which positively impact physical and mental health.
- Praise Positive Behaviours: Praise positive behaviours to encourage repetition.
- Validate Feelings: Validate their feelings and avoid criticism. They are sharing their unique inner experiences.
- Be a Role Model: Show and share coping strategies. Positively reinforce any positive behaviour and boost their self-esteem by offering reassurance.
When to Contact a Professional
- School Involvement: Contact the school to understand their behaviour and if any changes have been noticed.
- Persistent Symptoms: When symptoms last longer than two weeks and daily life is affected, it is time to seek help from a mental health professional. Your GP can guide you.
- Self-Harm or Suicidal Thoughts: If they start to feel like harming themselves or consider life not worth living, do not hesitate to contact a professional.
