Signs of Depression and Anxiety in Teens

The teen years can be tough. From physical changes and growing up to mental changes and navigating society, it’s common for teens to feel moody, anxious, or even angry.

Changing thoughts and feelings are common for children and teens as they get older. But when persistent or intense negative feelings don’t seem to go away, it could be a sign of depression or anxiety.

Up to 20% of teens experience depression, while 25% of teens suffer anxiety. Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health disorders in the United States. Anyone can develop them, but they can be particularly hard to identify in teens.

Latif Ziyar, MD is an expert in treating depression and anxiety in patients of all ages. Whether you’re a teen or a parent of a teen, it can be hard to know when behavior and feelings cross the line. Learn more about the common signs of depression and anxiety in teens here. 

Signs of teen depression

Depression is a serious mood disorder that can affect anyone at any age. Teens with depression generally suffer intense feelings of sadness or worthlessness that don’t go away on their own. Depression can impact performance in school, interest in social activities, and happiness at home. 

Depression can make you feel:

• Sad for no particular reason
• Angry
• Hopeless
• Worthless
• Disinterested in your favorite hobbies
• Disinterested in social activities

Common behavioral changes associated with depression include:

• Chronic fatigue
• Appetite changes
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Drug or alcohol use
• Poor performance in school
• Neglecting personal hygiene
• Self-harming

If you think you might have depression — or you’re concerned about your child — it’s important to talk about it and seek treatment. Depression can’t be managed with willpower alone. People with depression need expert care to help them navigate and improve negative thoughts.  

Thoughts or attempts of suicide require immediate medical care. If you or someone close to you is in danger, call 911, or visit the emergency room.

Signs of teen anxiety

Anxiety is characterized by high levels of emotional distress and worry. Teens with anxiety might worry more than usual about everyday events like school and social activities. Anxiety can make focusing difficult because it’s hard to control your thoughts.

You might have anxiety if you experience:

• Uncontrollable worrying
• Low self-esteem
• High stress levels
• Irritability
• Trouble concentrating
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Restlessness
• Muscle tension

Anxiety causes a lot of overwhelming thoughts and worries about what could happen. Although everyone experiences periods of anxiety from time to time, the mental health condition persists and interferes with your daily activities for a prolonged period of time. 

Dr. Ziyar works with people of all ages to diagnose and treat mental health conditions that affect quality of life. Treatment can significantly improve depression and anxiety symptoms. Generally, teens find that feelings of depression and anxiety improve with a combination of therapy and medication.

Don’t ignore the signs of depression and anxiety. Call our office today, or book an appointment online to learn more about your options for treatment.