Thread by @Devcoms

#Depression is one of the most common of all #mentalhealth problems. It is also one of the most treatable conditions.

Let's talk about adolescent depression
#DevComs

Image source: psychologytoday.com

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy The adolescent stage is a critical stage.

Adolescents often deal with a lot of issues they are not equipped to deal with that might cause depression.

It is also worthy of note that adolescent pubertal changes also put a lot of strain on them which may also lead to depression

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy If this stage is not managed with care the effects often last till adulthood, causing serious mental issues.

Situations that might cause depression in adolescents includes;
•Broken homes,
•peer pressure and bullying
•Academic expectations or learning disabilities

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy Also .....
•Family history of depression
•Long term illnesses
•Hormonal changes
•Psychosocial stress
•Poverty and violence
•Rape
•Drug and Alcohol abuse

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy Most of these triggers can cause depression that will lead to other mental problems and even suicide in the adolescent’s adult life.

It is important that the adolescent has a good support system (parents or siblings) to help them through this phase of their lives.

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy Identifying adolescents includes looking out for this signs;
•Feelings of deep sadness or hopelessness
•Lack of energy and Sluggishness
•Feeling worthless and guilty
•Inability to fall asleep and stay asleep or sleeping too much.
•Loss of pleasure in activities.

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy Also...
•Brooding or lashing out in anger
•Difficulty organizing, concentrating, or remembering
•Negative views of life and the world
•Drastic changes in appetite or weight
•Avoiding and withdrawing from friends and family
•Restlessness e.g. fidgeting

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy Depression is one of the most common of all mental health problems. It is also one of the most treatable conditions.

Parents and family members should interact freely with depressed adolescent to help them open up.

Attention should be paid to the adolescent

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy Also, Parents should seek professional help if you suspect your adolescent suffers from depression. Referrals should be made to competent mental health specialists such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist.

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy Physical and mental health are connected. Depression is exacerbated by inactivity, inadequate sleep, and poor nutrition. Unfortunately, teens are known for their unhealthy habits: staying up late, junk food, and spending hours on their devices.

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy But as a parent, you can combat these behaviors by establishing a healthy, supportive home environment.

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy @threadreaderapp kindly unroll thread

@akinlabiJ @dreadnstyn @healthcommng @HealthontheLen1 @_iamperpetua @DebisiBusybee @iam_doctormayor @depressionarmy @threadreaderapp kindly unroll