Understanding Teenage Depression

Being a teenager can be challenging. understanding teenage depression is equally challenging. There are numerous changes taking place in the body and the brain of a teenager, which have lasting effects on the way they think, understand, and behave.

In addition to the psychological and physical changes, teenagers are also experiencing changes in the way that they interact with others, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Many teens across the nation are no longer interacting with their peers and teachers in-person on a daily basis, and interacting significantly more with those they live with. All of these changes can have a profound impact on their mental health.

Beyond the challenges of being a teenager, being a black teenager can bring additional distress, especially for young men. Too often, young black men face a lack of love and acceptance from their immediate communities and society at large. Plus, many young black men are not taught and encouraged to process and talk about their emotional experiences. This can create a sense of isolation, frustration, anger, and resentment which can manifest in many ways, including teenage depression.

According to the CDC, depression is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children. Recent statistics demonstrate that 7.4% of children aged 3-17 years (approximately 4.5 million) have a diagnosed behavior problem, and 3.2% of children aged 3-17 years (approximately 1.9 million) have diagnosed depression. The CDC also states that the rates of youth being diagnosed with depression (and anxiety) have increased over time.

Teenage depression- What is it?

While experts agree that teenage depression is common, it still should be taken seriously for every single case. Teenage depression is a serious mental health condition that results in teens feeling overwhelmingly sad for a long period of time. Typically, depressed teens are not able to concentrate or do the things they usually enjoy. This includes daily activities, like sleeping, eating, and doing school work.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of teenage depression can vary, but there are common emotional changes and behavioral changes associated with this condition. Because teenage years can be inherently tough with normal, everyday ups and downs, it can be difficult to tell if your teen is depressed and overwhelmed by life or if your teen is capable of managing these challenges.

The Mayo Clinic also outlines a variety of issues that can be involved in the cause of depression and the risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing or exacerbating teenage depression, including: changes in brain chemistry or hormones, inherited traits or early childhood trauma, learned patterns of negative thinking, being a victim or witnessing violence, having issues that negatively impact self esteem, having a learning disability or other mental health condition, abusing alcohol, nicotines or other drugs, and being LGBTQ+ in an unsupportive environment.

If signs and symptoms of depression begin to interfere with your teen’s daily life or cause you to have concerns about their safety, talk to a doctor or mental health professional.

If you think you may be depressed, or have a friend who may be depressed, talk to a health care provider like your doctor, school nurse, or trusted adult. Don’t wait to get help.

It is important to note that teenage depression is not a sign of weakness or a flaw in character; it cannot be overcome with strength or willpower. Most people with depression need long-term treatment to get better and manage the consequences of this mental disorder. Specifically, medication and psychological counseling can provide some ease with the symptoms of depression.

Teenage depression for black youth

For African American youth, teenage depression is notably different in the causes, perceptions, and treatment. Mental health professionals outline the specific challenges that young black men face that can negatively impact their mental health. In addition to lacking the resources, information, and space to process and talk about their emotions, young black men are often celebrated only for their bodies, looks, and abilities, and not their brains.

These expectations of young black men leave little room for recognition and value of their brains, particularly their emotional intelligence. As the mental and emotional health of young black men is not honored and respected by society, they are susceptible to unique obstacles in getting the treatment they need for conditions like depression.

Researchers agree that African American youth face significant unmet needs regarding treatment for depression. Researchers have found that these unmet needs could be the result of black youth having a lack of willingness to trust peers, adults, and clinicians.

In a recent study, African American youth report that these adult figures do not understand them, make ineffective efforts to relate to them, or betray their trust. As a result, researchers found that African American youth, particularly boys, tend to not seek help from adults and feel as though they can handle it on their own.

Because depression is a mental health condition that is not overcome by sheer strength, willpower, or desire, this approach is not only ineffective, but also troublesome. Mental health professionals explain that depressed young black men, without adequate treatment and support, can seem shut down or, at its worst, display outward expressions of aggression.

Helping our teens cope with depression

In addition to getting support from a doctor or mental health professionals trained to work with adolescents, there are actionable and effective strategies to help your teenager cope with depression. These strategies include:

• Letting your son know that you want to know how he is feeling and that you are available to talk. Even if he is not ready to talk to you right now, knowing that you care and that you are interested in his well being is helpful. Ask what will work for him, and brainstorm ways to deal with his feelings on a day-to-day basis.
• Encouraging your teenager to keep up with his daily activities. Even if it is for shorter periods of time, or less often, help your teenager participate in the activities that he enjoys. Staying busy, doing things that help him relax, and keeping in touch with others that he likes and trusts is especially important at this time.
• Preventing your teenager from isolating themselves from their family and friends. Help him identify a few trusted people, whether they are family members, friends or peers, and encourage your son to keep in touch with someone at least once a day.
• Providing opportunities for your son to get some form of exercise multiple times a week. Being active and healthy can improve your teen’s mood. Additionally, make sure he has opportunities to keep his sleep schedule and regular diet.
• Suggesting that he keeps a journal to express himself. Writing and drawing can help teens identify and process what they are feeling, in addition to creating an outlet for self-improvement. It is important to respect your son’s expression and creative process – allow this journal to be for his eyes only, unless he would like to share.
• Maintain respect for your son’s feelings and emotions by protecting his privacy. While you should be readily available to talk with your son about his mental health, this should not be blatant, obvious special treatment.

There is an urgent need to champion black mental wellness, especially for our boys. In response, The Blue Heart Foundation remains committed to promoting high self‐esteem, emotional well being and a positive sense of self. We strive to create opportunities for self‐expression, reflection and self‐understanding through the development of relationships with other Blue Heart members and our community. Learn more about the H.E.A.R.T. Academy here.