Knowing your teen is showing signs of depression can leave you feeling worried, overwhelmed, and entirely helpless, especially if you are unsure of what to do next. If your teen is struggling with symptoms of depression, it is important to determine the best course of action to get them the help they need. While overcoming depression is never easy, it is possible when you use the right tools and resources, such as a behavioural treatment program in Canada at Venture Academy.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
Understanding the signs and symptoms of depression is imperative as a parent, especially if you suspect that your teen is struggling with their mental health. While signs of depression are not always visible or obvious, there are a few ways to determine whether it is time to discuss the possibility of depression with your teen. Depression manifests in various ways, and no individual is likely to experience the feeling of being depressed in the same manner. It is also important to note that depression may occur in both physical and psychological ways. Some of the most common ways that depression may present itself psychologically and mentally include:
- Hopelessness: If your teen expresses feeling hopeless or helpless, they are likely struggling with depression.
- Increased irritability: Increased agitation and irritability are both common in teens with depression.
- Mood swings: Depression can cause unpredictable mood swings at any age.
- Isolation: Isolation and social withdrawal may become commonplace in a teen who is struggling with depression.
- Sleep changes: Insomnia or sleeping too much may occur when depression is present.
Severe depression or depressive disorders may also manifest physically in individuals, including teens. Some of the most common physical signs of depression that may arise at any age include:
- Pain: joint pain and muscle aches may occur in individuals with severe depression
- Stomach/GI issues: nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and other bowel movement changes may occur
- Body fatigue: extreme body fatigue is one of the most common signs of depression
Consider a Behavioural Treatment Program
If you are at your wit’s end and you no longer know how to provide help for your teen, consider a behavioural treatment program in Canada. Parents who are in the middle of a crisis with their teenager can benefit from a third-party, such as a behavioural treatment program. Behavioural treatment programs offer a wide range of services. They include educational, individual, and small group-based programs. This can help teens face underlying issues in a safe and welcoming environment.
For teens who are also struggling with substance abuse while dealing with depression, behavioural treatment solutions also offer youth detox programs.
30-Day Assessment Program for Symptoms of Depression
Most teens in need of help from an inpatient center will be required to complete a 30-day assessment program to determine their individual needs. Once the individual needs of your teen have been assessed, a case manager will be assigned. This person can help them navigate the program. An intervention and multidisciplinary team are also available. They can help with your teen’s evaluation and with the creation of their individualized treatment plan. Once your teen has been evaluated, they will begin their program. The program may last anywhere from 30 days to more than six months in total.
Some of the most common underlying issues in troubled teens that may lead to depression include substance abuse, poor academic behaviour, or socialization with individuals who are bad influences. Common symptoms in teens who are struggling with depression may include outbursts, irritability, pathological lying, substance abuse, social isolation and withdrawal, sexual promiscuity, increased addiction to technology, and a lack of respect for you and other authority figures.
Overcome Depression at Venture Academy
Understanding the seriousness of depression in teens today is essential as a parent. As new forms of bullying are becoming commonplace, it is more important than ever to be aware. This helps ensure the mental health and well-being of your teen as they mature into young adults. With an understanding of depression and the resources of the right behavioural treatment program, you can provide your teen with the help they need to turn their life around for the better.
Is your teen struggling with depression and you are unsure of where to turn? Call 866.762.2211 for more information on how Venture Academy can help your teen get on the road to recovery.