Depression is a psychological condition affecting people of all ages — children, teens and adults. It causes feelings of worthlessness and sadness, hopelessness and irritability. In severe cases, people may even have thoughts of suicide. The Center for Young Women’s Health reports that the exact number of teens suffering from depression is not known; however, some of the possible causes are. Identifying these causes and their symptoms may help parents seek treatment for their children.
Genetics
Depression may run in some families, and some teens may inherit genes that increase their chances of suffering from this condition. The Center for Young Women’s Health reports that if other family members receive a diagnosis of depression, a teen may have a similar gene that increases his likelihood of developing this illness as well.
Chemical Imbalance
The brain contains neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers. Certain chemicals, such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, are responsible for mood regulation. When out of balance, these chemicals are unable to communicate properly with the cells of the brain. Lack of communication can result in disorders such as depression, anxiety and ADHD.
Life Events
Events in life may have a tremendous impact on teens, resulting in depression. KidsHealth.org explains that situations such as the death of a family member, friend or pet that affects a teen beyond the boundaries of normal grief and mourning may result in depression. Events that a teen may find challenging or overwhelming, such as the separation or divorce of parents, the remarriage of a parent or changing schools, can also lead to depression.
Feeling Isolated
Isolation can be a major reason for a teen to develop depression. The Center for Young Women’s Health reports that teens who feel different from their peers or family members may be at greater risk for suffering from depression. This can include teens who have just broken up with a boyfriend or girlfriend, and teens who have a different sexual preference.
Low Self-Esteem
Some teens have low self-esteem due to a variety of causes. These include teens who experience physical, verbal or sexual abuse on a regular basis or teens who do not receive words of encouragement from their parents. As the National Center for Health and Wellness explains, teens are easily overwhelmed by stress and are more likely to suffer from depression. KidsHealth.org adds that living in poverty or being homeless can lead to extreme feelings of sadness and unhappiness, resulting in depression.
About this Author
Based in Jamestown, Pa., Hannah Rice Myers has more than 10 years of experience as a freelance writer, specializing in the health industry. Many of her articles have appeared in newspapers, as well as “Curing Epilepsy: Hope Through Research.” Rice received her master’s degree in nursing from Upstate Medical University in 2001.
