Running Head: Depression In Teens And Young Adults

Running Head Depression In Teens And Young Adults1depression In Tee

Depression in Teens and Young Adults

Depression is a mental illness that is prevalent in today’s society. It is often discussed in relation to celebrities or individuals we know personally. Social media significantly influences the lives of teens and young adults, often causing them to spend excessive amounts of time online instead of forming meaningful real-world relationships, which are crucial for happiness (Forsell, 2007). This lack of genuine connections can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression, increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions.

Despite facing many challenges, one major obstacle for today’s youth is recognizing when they or others need help. Many teens who attempt suicide have signals of distress that go unnoticed or unrecognized. This raises questions about why so many teens and young adults suffer from depression, as well as the importance of early detection and intervention. Personally, I was diagnosed with Major Depression, Anxiety, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder at age 19, and I have been battling these conditions for over seven years. Despite appearing happy and engaging with others, I experience days of profound sadness and disinterest, which illustrates how depression can be hidden beneath an outwardly cheerful demeanor.

The physical and emotional changes that occur throughout development can act as triggers for depression. Adolescence, in particular, is marked by significant hormonal, psychological, and social transformations. Researchers have studied the emergence of depression, its progression, and its long-term impact on individuals (Wasserman, 2011). Depression is characterized by a persistently low mood and a loss of interest in activities, which can be a response to adverse life events, a symptom of a medical condition, or side effects of medication. It can also be associated with psychiatric syndromes, notably major depressive disorder and dysthymia.

In children and adolescents, depression presents similarly to adult depression, but with some differences. Younger individuals may exhibit increased irritability, aggression, or self-destructive behaviors rather than the classic sadness seen in adults. Those experiencing stress, anxiety, academic difficulties, or behavioral issues are at a higher risk of developing depression (Greenberg, 2017). Moreover, depression tends to run in families, indicating a genetic component to susceptibility.

Various treatments have been developed to aid depressed children and adolescents. However, there is ongoing debate regarding the diagnosis's validity and the effectiveness of assessment and treatment methods. Studies reveal that about 8% of children and adolescents experience depression, with prevalence rates ranging from 1.9% to 8.9% depending on age and maturity (Greenberg, 2017). Notably, roughly 70% of children with depressive episodes experience recurrence within five years, and approximately 50% experience depression again in adulthood. Rates of depression are similar for boys and girls under age 15, but after that age, depression rates among girls double those of boys, likely due to hormonal and social changes (Harbeler, 2017).

Additionally, depression often coexists with other mental health disorders. Anxiety disorders, conduct disorder, and dysthymia frequently co-occur with depression, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Co-morbidity rates with anxiety range from 15.9% to 75%, while conduct disorder co-morbidity is around 23%. Such comorbid conditions are linked with poorer academic performance, substance abuse, and increased suicide risk (Greenberg, 2017).

Depression's prevalence varies geographically and demographically. In the United States, around 9% of adults suffer from depression, affecting different states and populations disproportionately (Centers for Disease Control, 2010). Southeastern states like Mississippi report higher rates (14.8%), while colder states like North Dakota report lower rates (4.8%). Factors such as education level, marital status, employment, and health status significantly influence depression risk. Unemployed individuals, those with chronic illnesses, and those lacking health insurance tend to report higher depression rates (Forsell, 2007).

Child abuse and neglect are potent risk factors for depression, with long-term consequences. Physical abuse can result in physical injuries and severe health consequences, including impaired brain development. The cognitive effects include academic struggles and behavioral problems, while emotional consequences encompass shame, guilt, hopelessness, and fear. Children who experience neglect are more prone to antisocial behaviors and substance abuse later in life (Wasserman, 2011). Early detection and intervention are vital for preventing the escalation of depression in both children and adults.

Treatment options for depression include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. Psychotherapy methods such as talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and family therapy have shown efficacy (Harbeler, 2017). For children, psychotherapy often focuses on teaching coping skills and exploring feelings in a safe environment, while family involvement can enhance treatment outcomes. Medication, primarily antidepressants, is generally reserved for severe cases and used cautiously in children due to potential side effects.

Combining psychotherapy with medication is typically the most effective approach, especially when tailored to the individual’s needs. Early diagnosis remains critical; recognizing symptoms promptly can help prevent the progression of depression. As hormonal changes during adolescence contribute to mood fluctuations, adolescents may not always communicate their feelings, making it even more important for family and friends to be attentive and supportive (Parkin et al., 2017). Promoting open dialogue and providing emotional support can greatly mitigate the risk of depression and suicidal behaviors.

In conclusion, depression among teens and young adults is a multifaceted issue influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. The developmental stage of adolescence involves considerable hormonal and social changes, which can increase vulnerability to depression. Early detection and a comprehensive treatment approach, including psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, are essential for effective management. Family support, education, and increased awareness are crucial in reducing the incidence and severity of depression in youth populations. As mental health awareness continues to grow, integrating mental health education in schools and communities can foster early intervention, ultimately saving lives and improving quality of life for affected individuals.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2010). National Survey on Drug Use and Health. CDC. https://www.cdc.gov
• Forsell, Y. (2007). A three-year follow-up of major depression, dysthymia, minor depression and subsyndromal depression: Results from a population-based study. Depression and Anxiety, 24(1), 62-65.
• Greenberg, L. S. (2017). Emotion-focused therapy of depression. Person-Centered & Experiential Psychotherapies, 1-12.
• Harbeler, G. (2017). Prosperity and depression: A theoretical analysis of cyclical movements. Routledge.
• Parkin, L., Balkwill, A., Sweetland, S., Reeves, G. K., Green, J., Beral, V., & Million Women Study Collaborators. (2017). Antidepressants, Depression, and Venous Thromboembolism Risk: Large Prospective Study of UK Women. Journal of the American Heart Association, 6(5), e005316.
• Wasserman, D. (2011). Depression (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Greenberg, L. S. (2017). Emotion-focused therapy of depression. Person-Centered & Experiential Psychotherapies.
• Additional scholarly sources here for comprehensive support.