Risks of Leaving Teenage Depression Untreated

All people who take care of children and work with children should be aware of the signs and symptoms of teenage depression. The condition is extremely serious and it is classified as a psychological disorder. Regrettably, only 20% to 30% of the sufferers are actually treated for the condition. This is a shockingly low percentage, especially given the consequences of the lack of treatment. If teenage depression is not treated adequately and on time, it can lead to serious problems for the sufferer and for the people around them. You should be aware of the risks of leaving teenage depression untreated. This will help you to avoid this crucial mistake.

Low self-esteem is a direct consequence of teenage depression. The sufferer feels hopeless and worthless. Usually the teen suffering from the condition believes they are ugly and/or stupid. In turn, they become extremely shy and avoid communication, especially with their peers. The sufferer can become increasingly unsatisfied even due to tiny failures. This low self-confidence can leave serious long term effects, if it is not boosted in a way.

Problems at school are quite typical for depressed teenagers. Their low self-esteem, withdrawal from people and the greater sensitivity and irritability are just some of the causes of problematic behavior at school. The depressed adolescent is usually late for school and starts missing classes. They are frustrated with paying attention in class and with doing their homework. The drop in grades and the lack of interest in education are quite common for depressed teens who feel hopeless about the future.

General reckless behavior is an extremely common symptom of teenage depression. It is usually related to risking self-injuries and serious problems. Individual teens behave differently. Some get involved in dangerous pastimes. Others begin reckless sexual behavior that increases their chance of suffering from sexually transmitted diseases. The most common of all reckless behaviors in depressed adolescents is alcohol and/or drug abuse. These are particularly dangerous because they can lead to addiction, intoxication, serious damage of vital bodily organs and even death.

Teenage depression can easily lead to other types of addiction as well. Internet addiction is extremely common at present; the teen spends all their time online and withdraws from their daily life almost completely. The depressed teen might get addicted to cigarettes or food as well. It is possible for teenagers to try to treat themselves with medications and other substances that are addictive.

The psychological and behavioral problems of depressed adolescents can lead to serious illnesses. Eating disorders are the most common condition in depression sufferers, and girls in particular. Anorexia and bulimia are usually triggered by low self-esteem and are extremely dangerous. Just like drug and substance abuse, eating disorders can lead to physical problems, such as heart failure and death.

Self-injury is also common in depressed teenagers. Adolescents suffering from the condition may cut themselves or burn themselves on purpose. In some cases such actions can be fatal.

Suicidal thoughts and behavior are common in depressed teens. Hence, if the disorder goes untreated the sufferer is highly likely to attempt suicide. Regrettably, this risk is extremely high. The statistics show that approximately 500,000 teens attempt suicide in the USA every year. 1% of them actually succeed. For these reasons, teenage depression should be noticed and treated on time.

Violence and the commitment of crimes are becoming increasingly common in depressed adolescents, especially boys. The teen might destroy property or steal. It is also possible for the child to get involved in fights and abuse physically younger and weaker children. There are more and more cases in which the violence escalates dramatically and leads to mass murder and suicide.

These are the main risks of leaving depression untreated. They are extremely serious and can lead to the destruction of a single life or the lives of many. It is the responsibility of all caregivers to take timely measures and help the sufferer. Parents should not see the problem as shameful, but seek the most appropriate solution for their child. Teachers and other people working with children should assume greater responsibility and report immediately any problematic behavior.

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• What Is Teenage Depression?
• Signs and Symptoms of Teenage Depression
• Teenage Depression – When to Call a Professional for Help
• How to Know When It’s “Only a Phase” – Recognizing Teenage Depression