Teen Angst vs. Depression: Understanding the Difference
Teen angst is not the same as depression. While the two may seem similar, depression in teenagers can manifest in ways that are easily mistaken for typical teenage moodiness. Teens often experience extreme highs and lows, driven by fluctuating hormones and the challenges of navigating a fast-paced, ever-changing world. They go from one 45-minute class to the next, and their daily experiences shift dramatically. As a result, signs of depression can often be overlooked and mistaken for standard teenage dissatisfaction with the world.
Recognizing Signs of Depression in Teens
Signs that a teenager may be depressed can overlap with what is often interpreted as normal teenage behavior. These signs include isolation, withdrawal from family activities, slipping school performance, loss of friendships, and suspicious behaviors that may suggest drug or alcohol use. While these behaviors can occur from time to time in any teenager, the accumulation of such signs should raise concern.
Some teens may openly admit that they are feeling depressed when asked. While they might not volunteer this information on their own, it’s important to initiate the conversation. Many teens today understand that there’s no shame in struggling with depression—unlike the stigma that was present even just 20 years ago. When teens recognize that they are depressed, they often look for ways to feel better. Some may immerse themselves in a hobby, while others may leave subtle clues about their emotions.
Clues can come in the form of conversations focused on emotional reactions to events in their lives. You might notice a sudden shift in their willingness to engage with you about personal topics. A teen may begin to show more interest in how their parents are feeling about events in their own lives, hoping to find someone who can relate to their struggles. They may wish to feel less isolated and find comfort in knowing that at least one parent understands their emotional turmoil.
If you notice signs that your teenager is depressed, it’s crucial to help them process their emotions. Even if seeking professional help feels like a battle every week, they will eventually come to realize that they need it. Over time, as their life feels increasingly out of control, the importance of getting help will become clear to them.
Teen Depression and Its Effects on Behavior
Teens with depression are more likely to experiment with illegal substances or engage in self-harming behaviors as a way to cope with their emotions. Excessive television watching and time spent in front of the computer can also be indicators of depression. These behaviors may provide temporary distractions from their emotional pain but only contribute to further isolation and feelings of hopelessness.
Whether in teenagers or adults, depression makes it difficult to handle daily life. Every depressed teen will search outside themselves for some form of comfort or escape, whether through substances, isolation, or other unhealthy coping mechanisms.
The good news is that depressed teenagers can be helped. Despite their struggles, teenagers are resilient individuals who want to be happy, productive, and feel valued. They deeply care about their impact on the world and desire a sense of importance. After all, teenagers want to feel dignified and recognized for their efforts. When they find a cause or purpose, it can help them feel more connected to the world and lessen their feelings of depression. Teenagers who are connected to a cause or feel that they matter are less likely to experience prolonged depression.
However, this doesn’t mean you should immediately rush to find a social cause to “fix” your depressed teenager. While having a purpose can help, it’s just one of the ways a teen can find their own value and influence in the world. Everyone needs to feel important. Unfortunately, some teens may look for a sense of belonging in unhealthy places. This is how gangs form and can be a contributing factor to behaviors such as sexual promiscuity.
As a parent, your dedication and consistent effort to understand the challenges your teenager is facing will be crucial. Offering reasonable resources and creating a supportive environment for them to explore their feelings can make a significant difference in how they cope with depression.
