I just read an excellent article that very clearly lays out the aspects of an adolescent’s life that can lead to minor or major depression and the hope and help available. In my teen years I was fortunate to escape anxiety and depression, but I have danced with both as an adult and I feel compassion for any young person today who is dealing with the same mental/emotional conditions. Gratefully, a lifetime of spiritual, interpersonal, and professional support has given me the tools to navigate life with joy and success. But I worry about the kids.
As the normal day-to-day demands of school, work and relationships couple with the many changes and pressures during adolescence, it is not surprising that teens often struggle with feeling down, discouraged, rejected, or stressed. Unlike when I was young, long before the internet and social media, the positive and negative influences of these outlets on teens add an extra layer of demand on their mental and physical health. I believe that often teens (and adults, too!) are not even aware of how easily and thoroughly they are influenced by the multitude of media outlets and their constant presence in our lives.
The following quote from their article, “Depression In Teens” by Mental Health America summarizes it well and certain phrases definitely spoke to me: “Unrealistic academic, social, or family expectations can create a strong sense of rejection and can lead to deep disappointment. When things go wrong at school or at home, teens often overreact. Many young people feel that life is not fair or that things ‘never go their way.’ They feel ‘stressed out’ and confused. To make matters worse, teens are bombarded by conflicting messages from parents, friends and society. Teens need adult guidance more than ever to understand all the emotional and physical changes they are experiencing.”
This article gave me hope for the teens out there who may struggle with depression – hope that there are clear paths to understanding and helping anyone in need. I encourage you to read, share, and talk about the full article on adolescent depression. To find this article with the following topics, click here.
Dealing with Adolescent Pressures
Recognizing Adolescent Depression
Treating Adolescent Depression
Facing the Danger of Teen Suicide
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Helping Suicidal Teens
Looking to the Future
Other Resources:
Sorry, comments are closed for this post.