Adolescent depression Health Article

Definition

Adolescent depression is a disorder that occurs during the teenage years, and involves persistent sadness, discouragement, loss of self-worth, and loss of interest in usual activities.

See also:

• Depression
• Major depression

Alternative Names

Depression - adolescents; Teenage depression

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Depression can be a temporary response to many situations and stresses. In adolescents, depressed mood is common because of:

• The normal process of maturing and the stress associated with it
• The influence of sex hormones
• Independence conflicts with parents

It may also be a reaction to a disturbing event, such as:

• The death of a friend or relative
• A breakup with a boyfriend or girlfriend
• Failure at school

Adolescents who have low self-esteem, are highly self-critical, and who feel little sense of control over negative events are particularly at risk to become depressed when they experience stressful events.

Adolescent girls are twice as likely as boys to experience depression.

Risk factors include:

• Child abuse - both physical and sexual
• Chronic illness
• Family history of depression
• Poor social skills
• Stressful life events, particularly loss of a parent to death or divorce
• Unstable caregiving

Depression is also associated with eating disorders, particularly bulimia.