5 things to know about teens and depression

How does depression impact children and teens?   Depression impacts many youth and families across the U.S. Up to 28% of young people experience an episode of major depression by age 19 with an average onset age of 13 years old. However, only 38% of teens experiencing depression receive treatment. Raising awareness is a key step to addressing depression. Depression is treatable, and early detection and treatment are effective. With increased awareness and early intervention efforts, both teens and adults can learn to identify the signs of depression and get help sooner. Left untreated, depression can lead to deteriorating school work, strained relationships with peers and adults, high rates of absenteeism, school dropout, substance abuse and suicide. There is a strong and significant connection between students’ emotional health and their academic progress: students who are battling emotional problems are not able to learn as well as students who can devote their full attention and concentration to their education. Depressive disorders are the largest single contributor to adolescent suicide risk. Seventeen percent of U.S. high school students report having seriously considered suicide during the previous 12 months. What causes depression?   Depression is caused by a combination of factors, not a single factor. Depression is not just a phase and is nobody’s fault. It is a medical illness that includes a combination of biological, psychological and social componen...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Diseases & conditions parenting Depression grief Source Type: news