There are many environmental, emotional and physiological triggers that can set off major depressive disorder (MDD) in teens. Lacking a foundational sense of self-worth is at the root of depression for many young people. Many are also still recovering from personal losses and stressful experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. When triggers like bullying, rejection or other losses come up, it can be devastating to teens who are already dealing with insecurity or unresolved grief and sadness. 

These and other factors have been contributing to the teen mental health crisis that’s been building for over 10 years. Unrealistic beauty standards and high expectations for success in school have plagued teens for generations. A lack of interpersonal skills and awareness about mental health magnifies other issues they face.

Have you noticed that your teen doesn’t have as much energy as usual? Are they more socially withdrawn or indifferent about things that usually interest them? Negative moods from time to time are typical for teenagers. However, it’s important to know the signs of MDD and understand triggers that may set off a depressive episode. 

It’s estimated that 20.17% of youth ages 12-17 have reported suffering from at least one major depressive episode. These episodes typically last for at least two weeks. When left untreated, they can last much longer, from six to 12 months.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about some of the most common triggers for teens who have MDD and the importance of understanding these triggers so you can support your teen’s mental health and all-around well-being.

Types of triggers for teen depression and examples 

While there’s often an emotional component to depression, genetics, stress and life changes also play important roles. Teens may fall into a depressive episode when they don’t have the resources, skills or support they need to cope with a situation they’re facing. Cyberbullying, academic pressure, and feeling a lack of acceptance or support from caregivers are overwhelming challenges many teens face. Other times, teen depression may have less obvious causes — for instance, sleep disruption, seasonal changes or physical health problems. 

Oftentimes, it’s not just a triggering event but also a level of vulnerability that makes a depressive episode more likely. It takes time, experience and guidance for teens to develop the life skills they need to manage their own emotions. Many will internalize negative messages they hear from peers and adults in their lives. Without healthy coping skills, they may develop perfectionistic tendencies or a persistent internal critic in response. Teens need to actively work on emotional resilience and skills like asking for help or validating their feelings in healthy ways.

The following are some examples of depression triggers that may affect teens:

• School-related stress and high expectations
• Negative messages on social media 
• The need to appear a certain way on social media
• Bullying and cyberbullying
• Peer relationships and social dynamics
• Family conflicts or changes
• Transitioning to a new school or living situation
• Loss of a loved one
• Dealing with medical conditions or poor physical health
• Sleep disruption and irregular sleep patterns
• Hormonal changes 
• Seasonal changes (seasonal affective disorder)
• Perfectionism and self-criticism
• Identity struggles
• Low self-esteem
• Past trauma or adverse experiences

Recognizing the warning signs of a depressive episode

It’s good to maintain an open dialogue with your teen about what’s happening in their life and how they’re feeling. You can set an example by caring for your own mental health and help educate your teen about mental health and self-care. You should also learn about common mental health symptoms and warning signs that your teen may be struggling. 

Understanding depression triggers and symptoms can help you talk with your teen about your concerns. Describing behaviors and changes you’re noticing in a straightforward way, without judgment, can help you start important conversations. You may help your teen troubleshoot what’s going on and identify some places where they need your support. If your teen is consistently overwhelmed or they don’t make it through the slump within a couple of weeks, you should talk to them about seeking treatment.

The following are some symptoms of depression and signs your teen may be having a depressive episode:

• Changes in behavior and mood
• Low energy
• Aches and pains
• Digestive issues
• Academic performance changes
• Resistance or refusal to go to school
• Loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy
• Insomnia or oversleeping
• Changes in appetite
• Social withdrawal

Learn more about treatment options for teen depression at Lightfully

Having one depressive episode is a clear sign that your teen needs more support to manage their mental health — 60% of people who have one depressive episode have another one in their lifetime, and the likelihood of recurrence keeps going up each time. Helping your teen seek treatment now can set them up for a lifetime of mental wellness.

Minimizing depression symptoms is more of a by-product of effective mental health treatment for teens rather than a primary goal. At Lightfully, our licensed clinicians help teens build up internal resources and skills in four areas: thoughts, emotions, behaviors and relationships. Each of our clients receives a personalized treatment plan with evidence-based treatments hand-picked for their unique condition and their goals. We include family therapy sessions for all teens so you and your loved ones can learn how to best support your child. We also incorporate group therapy, which helps teens feel less alone, among other therapeutic benefits.

Are you concerned about a teen in your life who may have depression? We can help. Contact us to talk about treatment options or reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team today.