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Teen Years (13-18)
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These are frightening times to raise a teenager. Tragic events such as those that occurred at Virginia Tech and Columbine certainly generate anxiety, as do the increasing rates of depression, suicide, eating disorders, substance abuse and other destructive behaviors in teenagers. One of the biggest challenges for many parents is distinguishing between normal teenage behavior and a psychological problem that may have serious consequences. Most experts agree that teenage depression is a grossly underdiagnosed disease that leads to many other harmful behaviors, such as drug and alcohol abuse, eating disorders, self-injury and conduct disorders. Approximately 8% of adolescents suffer from depression at some time during a one-year period, making it much more common than many other psychological disorders. Even more frightening is the fact that teen suicide in the past 15 years has grown by almost 25%. “If parents suspect their teenager is experiencing depression, they need to be very vigilant, keep communication lines open and get help for their child if needed,” says Marjorie Charlop-Christy, professor of psychology at Claremont McKenna College. Since irritability, defiance, sulkiness, negativity and withdrawal are associated with the teenage years, parents often question if their child has age-appropriate moodiness or instead has a significant psychological problem. Sorting out normal from dangerous behavior is definitely not easy. “The typical teenager is very responsive behaviorally to fluctuations in hormones, so parents will see moodiness or periods of ups and downs in their lives,” she says. “But with depression, it's a pervasive and steady withdrawal.” To help parents discern whether their child may be experiencing something more serious than normal teenage mood swings, Charlop-Christy offers these eight warning signs of emotional/psychological stress. If several of these symptoms appear in your teen, it's wise to seek professional help. [1] Change in general personality: If your child has always been talkative but over a period of time becomes sullen and quiet, this could be a sign that something is wrong. On the other hand, if she has always been a quiet child and gradually becomes peppier and outgoing, this may also be a signal of a psychological problem. In addition, many troubled teens start exhibiting eccentric and explosive behavior. [2] General withdrawal from activities: Spending long periods of time in their rooms, not wanting to go to school and refusing to spend time with friends are signs that something is wrong. Depressed teens lose interest in activities they used to enjoy. [3] Change in sleeping habits: Most teens suffering from depression and other psychological problems stay awake at night and sleep during the day. Teens suffering from depression also are lethargic and complain of being tired all the time. They have difficulty concentrating and making decisions. [4] Change in eating habits: There is usually a change in their appetites. It's usually a loss of appetite but can also be an increase. As a result, teens with emotional disorders usually lose or gain weight. [5] Drop in grades: A teen suffering from an emotional or psychological problem typically experiences a downward trend in school performance. They may say they do not have homework and their grades plummet. [6] Change in friends or peer groups: If you notice that your teenager is gradually hanging out with a different group of friends and has ended old friendships, this could be a sign that something is wrong. [7] Excessive drug or alcohol usage. Unfortunately, it's easier for many parents to remain in complete denial of their teens' substance abuse. If you suspect that your child has a problem with drugs or alcohol, it's essential to confront them. [8] Self-injury. Cutting or other forms of self-mutilation are usually related to depression and other disorders. Teens who inflict this sort of pain onto themselves are usually seeking relief from intense emotional pain. WHAT SHOULD PARENTS DO? Most HMOs, PPOs and other insurance organizations have mental- health providers who specialize in children and teenagers. Once they obtain a list of psychologists and psychiatrists from their insurance company, parents should spend time talking to the specialist to find out if they would make a good match for their child. Some specialize in specific areas, such as teenage mood disorders or anxiety issues. A major concern for many parents is when a specialist recommends the use of antidepressant medications, called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which go by trade names such as Prozac, Luvox, Paxil and Zoloft. Charlop-Christy (who as a psychologist is more biased toward therapy than medication) stresses that there are specific disorders that call for medication, including depression. “Medication can help get the right number of neurotransmitters working in the brain, which helps a person feel better,” she says. “Recent studies also indicate that future physiological damage can be prevented if depressive episodes are treated with medication in the short-term.” Mental health experts advise parents who have teenagers suffering from psychological disorders not to take it out on themselves. “I want parents to know that it's not their fault,” says Charlop-Christy. “There's a biological predisposition to depression and other disorders, and even if an environment contributes to the problem, their child is usually pre-wired to act in such a way.” Carol Daus is a freelance writer who lives in Huntington Beach with her husband and three teenagers. |
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