Depression in tweens and middle schoolers is a growing concern, affecting 1 out of 8 adolescents. Recognizing the signs early can make a huge difference in their well-being and future. Here are three critical ways to identify depression symptoms in adolescents:
1. **Emotional Changes and Mood Swings**
One of the most common indicators of depression in tweens can be a type of chronic sadness or a down mood that doesn’t go away. This can show up in life as your tween or teen being irritable, having a lack of interest in things they enjoy, and a general sense of not caring about life. Parents should watch for signs of withdrawal from friends and family, difficulty concentrating, and feeling worthlessness. These emotional changes can be subtle but are important to look for as they often come before more severe situations.
2. **Physical Signs and Changes in Behavior**
Physical symptoms can also signal depression in tweens. If your kid is frequently tired, eating more or less than usual, losing or gaining noticeable amounts of weight, or sleeping less or more than usual they could be at risk.
If you notice your kid being indecisive, lacking confidence, and showing irresponsible behavior like forgetting what they’re supposed to do or they’re skipping school there may be some underlying depression. Parents should pay attention to grades dropping too. This can be a red flag for bigger problems at hand.
3. **Thoughts of Suicide or Self-Harm**
While it’s definitely a hard thing to think about yet alone talk about, suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm are serious indicators of depression. Tweens and middle schoolers struggling with these things may isolate themselves from friends and family, be very irritable, and be super sensitive toward criticism, rejection, or failing at things. They may even act out by being rebellious. It’s important for parents to approach these situations with empathy and seriousness. Seek professional help right away if these signs appear. Remember if you think your kid may be feeling suicidal, ask them. Trust your gut. Sometimes that’s all it takes to open the door to discussing what’s going on in their hearts.
What Parents Can Do
If you think your tween might be dealing with depression, talk to them. We’ve said it more than once but it’s necessary. Talk with them about your concerns. Let them know you care and want to make sure they’re ok. Let them know it’s okay to have the feelings they are having. If they don’t want to talk to you, then encourage them to speak with someone they trust, such as another family member, a friend, or a teacher. It’s also helpful to talk with mental health professionals who can offer professional help and assessments that provide guidance for the next steps and how to help.
Start Working with A Depression Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Depression is treatable! Early intervention can make a huge difference. By recognizing the signs and taking action, parents can definitely help their tweens navigate this challenging time and move towards a path of health and happiness. Our team of caring therapists is happy to offer support with in-person and online services. Start your therapy journey with Great Lakes Wellness Counseling by following these simple steps:
- Contact us or call (616)202-1910 for a free consultation.
- Get to know a caring therapist.
- Start supporting your teen to navigate the symptoms of depression!
Other Services Offered with Great Lakes Wellness Counseling
Depression counseling isn’t the only service offered at Great Lakes Wellness Counseling. At Great Lakes Wellness Counseling we offer a variety of services for adults, and couples. Other services offered include Anxiety Treatment, Teen Counseling, Christian Counseling, Therapy for Men, Depression Treatment, and Therapy For Women. These services can be accessed both in person in Jenison and online throughout Michigan.
