Adolescent Depression

The Treatment of Adolescent Depression with Medication is Beneficial and Fundamental in the Recovery Process

Depression is a severe medical condition that affects millions of people, including adolescents, in today's society. Adolescent depression is a complex psycho physiological disorder that is a widespread and misunderstood disease throughout the world. Over twenty years ago, depression amongst adolescents and children was uncommon and nearly unknown. (2006, Depression Learning Path). Health professionals and medical research teams were unaware of the insidious dangers and consequences depression may cause in adolescents until medical studies were recently conducted. Medical statistics state one in eight adolescents may suffer with moderate to severe depression. Functionally impairing depression has been found in 2-10% of adolescents, which is a much more serious case of depression. (2006, Dopheide, p. 233). The majority of adolescent's suffering with depression does not receive adequate attention and treatment from health care professionals. Judy Battle (2002) reports, "Of all these children and teens struggling with emotional and behavioral problems, a mere 30% receive any sort of intervention or treatment. The other 70% simply struggle through the pain of mental illness or emotional turmoil, doing their best to make it to adulthood." (p.1).
Depression amongst adolescents may be caused due to changes in the body such as low epinephrine, neurotransmitters, or serotonin levels. Another theory emphasizes the role of environmental or post-traumatic stresses. The separations of parents, change of schools, loss of a loved one, or perhaps child abuse are also possible triggers. (National Institute of Mental Health, 2001). Adolescents may express outward warning signs and symptoms that indicate moderate to severe depression. The side-effects and symptoms of depression affect one's behavior, emotions, state of mind, and bodily functions. Noticeable changes in attitude, appetite, sleeping patterns, and social interaction often occur during a moderate level of depression. Attitude changes may include irritability, worthlessness, outbursts of anger, and a lack of enthusiasm. Appetite alterations tend to include binging or under eating, which may result in a serious eating disorder such as; anorexia or bulimia nervosa. Common changes in sleeping patterns are; insomnia, frequent napping, or restlessness during the night. Withdrawal of social interaction tends to include lack of school and personal activities with fellow peers. Clinical depression is considered a far more severe level of depression that includes harsh warning signs and symptoms. Alcohol and chemical substance abuse with over-the-counter and/or prescription drugs, as well as illegal recreational drugs may occur. Self-injury techniques such as; burning, cutting and other self-mutilation methods is also a common sign of clinical depression. A far more serious side-effect of depression is suicidal thoughts and actions. Judy Battle (2002) reports, "The consequences of untreated depression can be increased incidence of depression in adulthood, involvement in the criminal justice system, or in some cases, suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people ages 15 to 24. Even more shocking, it is the sixth leading cause of death among children ages 5-14." (p.1). Some of the symptoms to watch for that would indicate a teenager is contemplating suicide according to Family First Aid (2001) are: obsession with death, poems referring to death, dramatic changes in personality or appearance, bizarre behavior, and giving away personal belongings." (p.2.)