Teen Depression

Therapy and Support for Teens Struggling With Depression

Parents of teens are accustomed to their teenager’s random bouts of moodiness. However, when a teen’s symptoms of depression persist for more than two weeks, they should be evaluated. Rates of depression among teens, especially in girls, are on the rise and should always be taken seriously.

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Is My Teen Struggling with Depression?

The challenge for parents is who to determine whether their teenager is having a temporary bout of the blues or if they are experiencing clinical depression. Consider the following signs and symptoms of teen depression.

If a cluster of five or more symptoms persists for two weeks, the teen may be struggling with depression:

Loss of interest in their usual activities or hobbies
Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or despair
Changes in sleep patterns, such as hypersomnia or insomnia
Changes in eating habits that results in sudden weight gain or loss.
Excessive fatigue or listlessness.
Relationship problems.
Slowed thoughts and movements.

Avoids social situations, skips school.
Low self-esteem, feels inferior to peers.
Hypersensitive to criticism.
Difficulty paying attention in school.
Frequent physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomachaches.
Irritability, anger, hostility.
Talks about death and suicide.

What To Do If a Teen Struggles with Depression

If your teen is exhibiting several of the symptoms of depression, it is important to initiate a conversation with them about their mental health. Ask if there is anything troubling them, such as problems at school like falling grades or bullying.

If the teen is not able to pinpoint the problem, you should make an appointment for a physical exam. There may be a health-related reason for the symptoms they are displaying. If the doctor doesn’t identify a medical problem, he or she will recommend that the teen meet with a mental health professional.

Outpatient Treatment Options for Teen Depression

Outpatient treatment for teens experiencing depression will involve multiple elements. These interventions are available in an outpatient setting, allowing the teen to continue to reside at home with their family. Outpatient treatment is available in two levels of care. These include:

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOP is a step up from basic weekly outpatient therapy. An IOP provides depression treatment three days a week for three hours each session.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP).
PHP is the highest level of outpatient care for teens in need of treatment for depression. The PHP requires 25-30 hours of participation in therapeutic activities per week.

Treatment interventions include:

Assessment
The teen undergoes an initial evaluation and assessment that provides the necessary information for the clinical team to arrive at a diagnosis. From there, a tailored treatment plan is designed specifically for the teen.
Therapy
Outpatient treatment includes individual psychotherapy, also called talk therapy sessions. These sessions allow the teen to discuss any issues that may be related to the depression. Evidence-based therapies are used to help the teen shift their negative thoughts toward more positive ones.
Group Therapy
Group therapy involves a small group of teens meeting to discuss topics related to their mental health struggle and recovery progress.
Medication management
Medication is provided for teens if indicated by the diagnosis. If the teen is currently prescribed medication for depression, it will be reviewed and monitored.