Depression in Adolescents
Brain Bloom Neurotherapy Center
Is your teen constantly withdrawn and easily upset? Do you feel like you don’t know what’s going on with them because they don’t talk? You wonder if your teenager might be depressed. They might not be but it would be important to know for sure.
Depression in youth is a serious issue. Major depressive disorder typically begins around the mid-teen years. Approximately 10% of 11 to 16-year-olds have emotional disorders, and this number increases to 15% by the age of 17 to 19.
We have witnessed a rising rate of depression among teenagers. Isolation from the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the increased presence of social media have played large roles in the rise of teenage depression. Compared to the pre-pandemic period, the number of adolescents with depression has increased by 1.5 to 2 times.
The First step is assessment
In order to understand what’s happening with your teen, a professional will assess the situation through various means. This may involve a psychiatric evaluation, questionnaires and, if necessary, psychological testing.
Next step is treatment
At Brain Bloom Neurotherapy Center, we have different treatment modalities. Whether they need talk therapy, medication, or TMS, our lead doctor will pick the best treatment option for your child depending on the results of their psychological assessment. Our newest option, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a drug-free treatment that has been FDA-approved for adolescents ages 15+ and can be the first-line of treatment for adolescents ages 15-17.
At Brain Bloom Neurotherapy Center we offer TMS treatments under the care of Ehsan Habibpour, MD a board certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist.
Is Neurostar covered by insurance?
It takes the right team to battle depression.
TMS therapy is not one size fits all therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Depression in Adolescents
Does depression look different in teens than in adults?
Yes. Unlike adults, teens display depression through irritability, aggression, and oversensitiveness. Though these symptoms are seen in anyone with depression, they are more likely to be seen in teens and children in the adolescent stage than in adults.
Can school stress or bullying contribute to depression?
Absolutely. This has become one of the common causes of depression in adolescents. Academic pressure, social rejection, and bullying can trigger or worsen depression.
What if my teen refuses therapy or conversations about their feelings?
Stay calm and don’t force anything. It’s common for teens to feel defensive or unsure about their feelings. Try validating their perspective, involving trusted individuals, and normalising mental health.
Is depression in teens something they'll "grow out of"?
No. Depression isn’t something that should be neglected. If not treated properly, it may worsen and cause serious consequences for your child’s life. Request professional help immediately if you notice.
Can teens continue in school or activities while receiving treatment?
Depends. Teens with initial stages of depression can continue schooling and other activities, with the permission of their therapist. But if the symptoms are critical( suicidal thoughts, self-harm, etc.), your child should be under constant monitoring and stopped from schooling.
Can a teen with depression still have good days?
Yes. Teens with depression can show contrasting behaviors. You may see them laugh, socialize, and act completely normal, yet struggle internally. Parents need to monitor their children’s behavior closely to identify their mental health needs.
Will treatment change my child’s personality?
No. Depression treatment helps children to embrace their true selves, hidden by depression symptoms. It doesn’t change your child’s core personality.
Address
Brain Bloom Neurotherapy Center is a mental health clinic in McLean, Virginia and is not affiliated with the BrainBloom App or any other similarly named businesses.
Phone
(703)712-7539