Teenage Depression Compared to Adult Depression

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Teenage depression is a mood disorder characterized by intense negative feelings and emotions. Depression goes beyond temporary feelings of sadness; it is a mental disorder that affects the way one’s mood is controlled by their brain. It is a serious medical illness that affects one’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, mood and physical health. These feelings can have a negative impact on a teenager’s life, leading to social, educational/vocational, personal and family difficulties. Depression is a real disorder that affects about one percent of adolescents by the age of 18 according to the National Comorbidity Survey-Adolescent Supplement (NCS-A). (March, J. 2004) Teenagers who experience depression tend to have similar symptoms as adults who suffer from depression, but there are a few distinct differences between the two. Teenagers who have depression may experience their emotions more intensely and with greater impulsiveness then adults. Teens also may experience irritability, instead of sadness, making them more prone to unexplained outbursts. Unexplained aches and pains may occur as well as extreme sensitivity from criticism. Teenage depression is relatively common in children and teenagers, children and teenagers make up five percent of the general population who suffer from depression. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Before puberty, teenagers are equally likely to develop depression. But by the age of 15, girls are almost twice as likely to develop depression then boys. (Cyranowski, JM. 2000) The risk of developing depression becomes greater as the teenager gets older. Because normal behaviors vary from teenager to teenager, it can be somewhat difficult to tell if a teenager is suffering from depression or just go... ... middle of paper ... ...lescents, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). CBT concentrates on changing the negative outlook on life, going from seeing the cup to half full instead of half empty. IPT focuses on a patient's self-concept and relationships with their peers and family. Antidepressant therapy is another treatment option for teenagers suffering from depression, but this treatment option also carries risks and side affects. Fluoxetine (Prozac) is the only antidepressant specifically approved by the FDA for the treatment of depression in children ages 8 and older. Teenagers should be closely monitored especially during initial weeks of treatment. Other activities that may help in decreasing the impact of depression include: 
exercising and eating healthy on daily basis and attending social activities while maintaining good sleep and hygiene. (TADS, 2007)

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