Depression in adolescent girls is a complex issue with many potential contributing factors. Common signs include sadness, irritability, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, and loss of interest in activities. Untreated depression can lead to risky behaviors and increase the likelihood of future episodes. Treatment options include therapy, medication, exercise, and social support.

1. Depression in Adolescent Girls Candace Romano

2. Understanding Depression A complex disturbance Many contributing factors Common misconception Teenagers are generally moody Difference between teenage and adult depression

3. Signs and Symptoms Sadness or hopelessness Irritability, hostility and anger Frequent crying Difficulty concentrating Changes in eating and sleeping patterns Loss of interest or enthusiasm in activities

4. Statistics Teenage depression is increasing One third of young women have been depressed at some point in their lives Research shows that teenagers who suffer from depression are more likely to have parents who suffer from depression as well

5. Teenagers who develop depression are 2 to 3 times more likely to have another episode in adulthood 5% of teenagers will relapse in 6 months Untreated depression during teenage years can lead to more severe episodes in adulthood Teenagers with depression are more likely to give in to peer pressure

6. Possible Causes Overwhelming stress Family Friends School Feelings of loss Low self-esteem Inherited traits Personality

7. Untreated Depression Running away Substance abuse Eating disorders Self-injury Reckless behavior Violence Suicide

8. Treatment Options Individual Therapy Cognitive behavioral: improve problem solving skills, social skills and negative thoughts Family Therapy Work to alleviate problems at home Antidepressants SSRIs: increase serotonin in the brain Used with caution in teenagers

9. Supplementary Treatment Options Healthy diet Exercise Keeping a journal Becoming knowledgeable about depression

10. Supporting a Teen through Depression Unconditional support Persistence Listening without criticizing Validating their feelings

11. Prevention Managing stress Having a support system Developing a healthy self-esteem Getting involved in school activities Staying physically active Parent Involvement

12. Christian Perspective The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it John 1:5 I can do all things through him who strengthens me Philippians 4:13

13. References Craig J. Grace; Dunn L. Wendy. Understanding Human Development. Lake Street, NJ. Prentice Hall. 2007. Empfield, Maureen; Bakalar Henry. Understanding Teen Depression: A guide to diagnosis, treatment and management. Holt and Company. New York, New York. 2001. Wolff, Lisa. Teen Depression. Lucent Books. 1998 Parker, Gordon; Eyers, Kerrie. Navigating Teen Depression: A guide for parents and professionals. Black Dog Institute. Australia. 2009. Dr. Hart, Arch; Dr. Webb, Catherine. Is Your Teen Stressed or Depressed? Thomas Nelson Inc. Nashville, Tennessee. 2005.