Articles
Puberty and Depression
Being a teenager isn’t easy. Even well-rounded, popular, attractive adolescents can be affected by depression, even more than many of us realize. While one in five teens will suffer from depression during their teen years. most never receive help, even though depression is highly treatable. A question asked frequently is: “Why don’t more teens get help with mental health issues?” Possibly because they don’t want to stand out from their peers. The stigma associated with mental illness keeps many people from seeking assistance. Another reason could be a bad experience with counseling or medication - know that as a parent, you have tremendous power to help a beloved child through tough times, even when they’re unlovable. Non-judgmental love, guidance, and support can help get things back on track.
Untreated mental illness can lead to serious consequences, problems in school, substance abuse, self-harm, and even suicide. Girls and women are much more likely to seek help from a mental health professional than are men and boys. Teenage boys and men find it difficult to put emotions into words. Teenage boys and ethnic minorities are the least likely to seek help for mental health concerns.
Turbulent teenage years are made more difficult by situations involving bullying, self-esteem issues, family conflicts and, not surprisingly, social media. Social media is a great tool for connecting, entertainment, self-expression, and even learning. According to a 2019 study of 6,500 12-to-15-year-olds, those who spent more than three hours daily using social media may be at a larger risk for mental health problems. Nighttime use of social media was linked to poor sleep quality and depression. Another troubling fact is that teens who post on social media are at risk of sharing intimate photos or very personal information. This can result in even further bullying or harassment.
Protect your teen by limiting activities, so they don’t interfere with “real-life” routines such as sleep, meals, homework. Keep phones off the table and out of the bedroom, if possible.
There are many mental health treatment options available for teens, including therapy, medication, and other support services. The type of treatment that is right for your teen will depend on the severity of their illness and their individual needs.
If you are concerned about your teen’s mental health, don’t wait to get help. Contact your healthcare provider to learn more about treatment options. Another valuable resource in NC is the Mental Health Support Hotline at (888) 672-0365. With the right help, your teen can get on the road to recovery.
Sources:
https://mayoclinic.org
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/parents-guide-to-teen-depression.htm
https://www.rightstep.com/rehab-blog/why-may-teens-not-seek-help-with-mental-health-issues/
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