Title: Depression in Teens | Mental Health America
Headings: Depression in Teens
Depression in Teens
Dealing With Adolescent Pressures
Recognizing Adolescent Depression
Treating Adolescent Depression
Facing the Danger Of Teen Suicide
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Helping Suicidal Teens
Looking To The Future
Other Resources

Content: Depression in Teens | Mental Health America
Depression in Teens
Depression in Teens
It’s not unusual for young people to experience "the blues" or feel "down in the dumps" occasionally. Adolescence is always an unsettling time, with the many physical, emotional, psychological and social changes that accompany this stage of life. Unrealistic academic, social, or family expectations can create a strong sense of rejection and can lead to deep disappointment. When things go wrong at school or at home, teens often overreact. Many young people feel that life is not fair or that things "never go their way." They feel "stressed out" and confused. To make matters worse, teens are bombarded by conflicting messages from parents, friends and society. Today’s teens see more of what life has to offer — both good and bad — on television, at school, in magazines and on the Internet. They are also forced to learn about the threat of AIDS, even if they are not sexually active or using drugs. Teens need adult guidance more than ever to understand all the emotional and physical changes they are experiencing.