Clinical depression, or major depressive disorder, affects millions of teens nationwide. As the leading mental health disorder in the U.S., 12.5% of teens experience a major depressive episode each year. Through therapeutic and psychiatric intervention, teens can learn to manage their symptoms. Learn more about depression and teen depression treatment NJ below.
What is Depression?
According to the American Psychiatric Association, clinical depression is categorized by long-term feelings of sadness and withdrawal from activities. Major depressive disorder interferes with a teen’s ability to function at home or in school. A combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors contribute to teen depression.
When untreated, long-term depression can lead to suicide. Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for young people ages 15 to 24.
Signs of Teen Depression
- Lethargy or fatigue
- Sadness, anger, or irritability
- Withdrawal from activities or socialization
- Disinterest in activities
- Changes in concentration, sleeping, or eating
- Lack of motivation and poor performance in school
- Self-harm or thoughts of suicide or death
How is teen depression treated?
No two cases of depression are the same, which is why treatment should be individualized. Teens who are experiencing depression should meet with a mental health professional in order to assess the severity of their symptoms and determine the appropriate course of treatment.
Professionals may recommend medication for some individuals. Behavioral therapy can also help with emotion regulation and developing coping skills. This therapy can occur in groups or in one-on-one sessions with a therapist.
Blueprint Mental Health Teen Depression Treatment NJ
Blueprint Mental Health specializes in the use of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in teens. Both DBT and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have been proven effective in the treatment of depression. We work with individuals and their families to help them regulate emotions and cope with stressors.