How Do You Know if You Have Depression?

Published: July 24, 2017
Dear TeenHealthFX,
How do you know if you have depression
Signed: How Do You Know if You Have Depression?

Dear How Do You Know if You Have Depression?,

According to HelpGuide.org, signs and symptoms of depression in teens can include:

  • Sadness or hopelessness
  • Irritability, anger or hostility
  • Tearfulness or frequent crying
  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Poor school performance
  • Changes in eating and sleeping habits
  • Restlessness and agitation
  • Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
  • Lack of enthusiasm and motivation
  • Fatigue or lack of energy
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Unexplained aches and pains
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

 

If you have any of the above symptoms and suspect you may have depression, the best thing to do would be to schedule an appointment with a mental health professional, such as a clinical social worker, clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. A mental health professional can provide you with a diagnosis based on your symptoms and other important information, such as a family history of depression.

If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area. You can also contact your insurance company to get a list of in-network mental health providers or check with your school social worker or psychologist to get a list of referrals in your area.

For more information, you can read the WebMD article, Teen Depression, the May Clinic article, Teen Depression, or the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) article, Teen Depression.

Signed: TeenHealthFX

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