Adolescent Health

1 in five kids and adolescents is affected by mental wellness troubles and disorders. Those aged 18-24 have the highest prevalence of mental disorders of any age group.

Depression in this age group ought to be taken seriously. Youth suicide is the third most frequent trigger of death in this age group.

The Lawson Clinic, a leading mood disorder facility based in Sydney Australia, believes that both biological and developmental aspects contribute to depression in adolescents. If Bipolar disorder or psychosis is suspected, biological causes would need to be examined.

Signs of depression in an adolescent

It is often hard to distinguish adolescent turmoil from depressive illness, specially as the young individual is forging new roles within the family and struggling with independence, and academic and career decisions.

An adolescent who is depressed may not show obvious signs of depression. Instead, he or she may possibly start to behave uncharacteristically, for example by:

- Becoming socially withdrawn.

- Falling in their performance at school.

- Engaging in risk-taking behaviours (e.g. reckless driving, inappropriate sexual involvements).

- Engaging in drug and alcohol abuse.

- Often a minor physical difficulty is utilised as a disguised appeal for assist.

Where to get support for an adolescent

If you feel your son or daughter, or someone you are close to, might be depressed, the initial step is to either take them to a general practitioner, to the local Community Well being Centre. The general practitioner will either conduct an assessment or refer the adolescent to a child and adolescent psychiatrist or mental wellness worker. Other initial sources of help are school counsellors and trusted close loved ones members to whom the adolescent feels comfortable talking.

At times the adolescent could not want to seek aid. In this case it is best to explain that you are concerned and maybe also present them with some details to read about depression.

There are also some superb sites developed for young folks, as nicely as confidential on-line and telephone counselling services. It is critical for young individuals to know that depression is a common issue and that there are people who can help.

If there is any talk of suicide this really should be taken seriously and immediate help sought from a mental well being professional.

Key points to remember

- Depression amongst young individuals is widespread, with 1 in five affected by mental  health problems.

- It can be difficult to distinguish depression from adolescent turmoil.

- Depression in an adolescent could be indicated by uncharacteristic behaviour such as withdrawing socially, dropping in performance at school, employing drugs or alcohol, or engaging in risky behaviour.

- Skilled support from a general pracititioner or counsellor really should be sought if depression is suspected.

- Immediate assist ought to be obtained from a general pracititioner or other mental health practitioner if an adolescent talks of suicide.