It’s not unusual for teens to make jokes about their mental health. They may brush off their negative emotions as no big deal. For example, if they get a low grade on a quiz, they may say, “I’m depressed.” But depression is not a joke, even if they may try to play it off as one. It’s important to take note of potential symptoms of severe depression in teenagers.

Severe depression is a level of major depressive disorder (MDD). MDD annually affects approximately 5 million adolescents in the U.S. between 12 and 17 years old. The severity can vary from person to person. Severe depression refers to symptoms that have a significant negative impact on a person’s overall quality of life. It could potentially lead to suicidality or self-harm.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about symptoms of severe depression to look for in a teenager as well as the next steps to take if you recognize them.

7 symptoms of severe depression in teenagers to be aware of

It’s natural, even expected, for a teen to feel down on occasion. Sometimes, those sad feelings last awhile, such as after losing a friendship or not passing a class. However, severe depression goes beyond general sadness in response to distressing events. It involves high-intensity symptoms that interfere with everyday life and last at least two weeks in a row. Severe depression can lead to negative cognitive, emotional and behavioral patterns that can impact a teen’s current and future quality of life.

Every teen experiencing a level of major depressive disorder should be able to find the support, comfort and resources they need to improve their overall well-being. But they may not be able to recognize or admit when they need that help. That’s why it can be helpful for parents and guardians to be aware of severe depression symptoms in teenagers. 

Severe depression is essentially characterized as having episodes with the same symptoms as milder types, but they are more intense and last several weeks or months. A clinical diagnosis for major depressive disorder usually requires that the symptoms last for at least two weeks. There are also additional symptoms that may increase their risk of hurting themselves or others. 

Here are seven symptoms of severe depression in teenagers:

• Overwhelming sadness — The most prevalent symptom of depression is pervasive feelings of sadness. In teenagers, this could look like unprompted crying, lack of talking or listening to sad music.
• Feelings of hopelessness about the future — While teenagers often look forward to what their futures hold, a teen with severe depression may not take steps toward accomplishing goals. This could mean refusing to tour colleges or talk about potential careers.
• Lack of self-esteem or negative self-image — Teenagers are trying to solidify their self-identity. But severe depression can make it difficult for teens to see themselves in a positive light. They could consistently make negative comments about their body or focus on perceived flaws.
• Reduced productivity at school — Severe depression can impact every facet of a teen’s life, including their academic performance. A lack of motivation from severe depression can result in low grades, skipping class or complete school avoidance.
• Decreased interest in activities — When a teen no longer feels interested in something they usually enjoy, it could be a symptom of severe depression. This could mean no longer spending time on their hobbies or skipping sports practice.
• Social withdrawal or isolation — Severe depression can often result in a teen spending more and more time alone. This could mean no longer spending time with their friends outside of school, staying in their room while they’re at home and lack of engagement during social functions.
• Self-harm or suicidality — When a teen is struggling to manage their severe depression, they may turn to self-harm behaviors, including cutting, burning or hitting themselves. You can look for signs such as marks on their skin or long sleeves in warm weather. They may also have suicidal thoughts, which may manifest as risky behavior, such as reckless driving.

If you believe that a teen is at risk to themselves or experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.

Lightfully Teen can help when you become aware of severe depression symptoms in a teenager

It can be concerning when you recognize negative emotional and behavioral patterns in your teenager. By acknowledging their potential symptoms of severe depression, you can start to guide them along their mental health journey. 

Be sure to relay your concerns to your family doctor so that they can figure out the best course of action for diagnosis and treatment. It’s possible that they will refer your teen to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a psychological evaluation. You’ll collaborate with your teen’s doctors to form a safe and effective treatment plan, which may include medication and psychotherapy.

At Lightfully, we help teens who are struggling with all severities of depression. We offer three levels of care at Lightfully Teen: Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization Program and Intensive Outpatient Program. They all provide clearly defined, data-driven and whole-person-centered care.

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step toward helping your teen’s severe depression, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of them.