The real cause of adolescent depression is not clear, but it is believed to have arisen from biochemical, genetic, psychological and environmental factors (William & Jerald, 2012). Pointedly, the depression can result from the occurrence of seasonal affective disorder which may emerge due to temporal relationship between the start of depression and change of season or decrease in sunlight. Therefore, it is very important to note the time when children start school in order to avoid stress at early stage of child development (William & Jerald, 2012).
William & Jerald (2012) reports that the initial signs and symptoms of depression may be seen by their close friends and teachers before their parents can notice. Therefore, proper diagnosis and treatment plan for the teenagers is very vital as that may considerably reduce the feelings of hopelessness and also lower the counts of suicidal attempts (William & Jerald, 2012).
The major notable signs and symptoms of adolescent depression include irritability, boredom, anxiety and hopelessness (Burford, 1995). Also, the adolescent normally tend to withdraw from friends, initial activities and family when at home (Burford, 1995). Some develop rebellious behavior, drinks alcohol or abuse drugs as well as indulging in promiscuous sexual behavior. Finally, most teenagers are generally preoccupied with death and attempt suicide as a result of feeling of hopelessness (Burford, 1995).
According to Lamarine (1995), in order to curb depressions, many interventions can be sought. Psychoanalytical therapies which target the subconscious conflicts can be used as well as the behavior therapy for changing the behavior patterns. Also cognitive therapies are also useful in improving and examining the met cognition. (Lamarine, 1995). Many community resources such as schools can be used to teach students to acquire strategies of coping with stress. The programs at schools greatly assist students that prone to depression (Lamarine, 1995). Physicians and nurses can also be used to prescribe anti-depressant medication to a depressed adolescent, however in cases of suicidal circumstances; a psychological counselor will also become involved (Burford, 1995).
References
Burford, S. (1995). What's wrong with this 12-year-old boy? Patient Care, 29: 85-88.
Lamarine, R. (1995). Child and adolescent depression. Journal of School Health, 65: 390-394.
William M. & Jerald K.(2012 ). Clinical Child Psychiatry (Eds). Oxford: John Wiley and Sons.
