Depression is a serious mental illness that should not be ignored. While sometimes the illness is confused with "the blues," the reality is depression is very common and in extreme instances can drive individuals to suicide. Here are some common symptoms in teen depression.
Sadness
The individual feels a sense of sadness or hopelessness about life, goals or school.
Irritability, Anger or Hostility
The individual easily gets irritable, angry or hostile. Changes in mood happen often and unpredictably.
Withdrawal
The individual no longer wishes to spend as much time with his family and completely withdraws.
Loss of Interest in Activities
The individual no longer appears to find joy or excitement from activities she use to love.
Lack of Enthusiasm and Motivation
The individual is down or uninterested in almost anything, and has a general lack of motivation.
Thoughts of Death
In extreme cases, the individual talks or considers taking his life through suicide.
Other
The individual shows changes in eating and sleeping habits, restlessness and agitation, feelings of worthlessness and guilt, fatigue or lack of energy, and difficulty concentrating.
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