6 Signs of Teen Depression

Adolescence is a time of rapid growth and shifting identities. It’s tough for teens to navigate the complex world of friendships, academics, and family. While moodiness and emotional ups and downs are common during puberty, persistent sadness or withdrawal may be a sign of a more serious mental health issue like depression.

Depression in teens often goes unnoticed and is misunderstood. Teenagers can have difficulty articulating how they’re feeling, and their symptoms may look different from those of adults. If you’re a parent, caregiver, teacher, or mentor, it’s important to recognize the warning signs of depression. Here are six key symptoms to watch for:

1. Frequent Irritability

While adults with depression often describe feeling sad or hopeless, teens may appear more irritable than down. A depressed teen might be easily annoyed, lash out at loved ones, or seem perpetually angry. These mood changes last more than a few days and seem disproportionate to the situation. If your teen seems stuck in a bad mood for weeks and isn’t snapping out of it, take notice.

2. Withdrawal from Their Social Life

One of the most telling signs of teen depression is a sudden disinterest in things that used to bring them joy. A teenager who once loved soccer practice, hanging out with friends, or family movie nights might disengage and now prefers to stay in their room. This kind of social withdrawal isn’t just about wanting alone time. They’re actually losing motivation and the ability to enjoy life.

3. Changes in Sleep and Appetite

Depression usually disrupts a person’s basic routines, regardless of age. Some teens may start sleeping excessively. This can look like struggling to get out of bed or napping throughout the day. Others might have trouble falling asleep or waking up frequently at night. Appetite changes can go either way, too: some may eat much more than usual, while others barely touch their food. If these changes are noticeable and persist for more than two weeks, they could be red flags.

4. A Drop in Academic Performance

Depression affects concentration, energy levels, and motivation, all of which can show up in the classroom. A teen who used to be engaged and get good grades may start skipping homework, zoning out in class, or seeing their grades drop. This isn’t about laziness or rebellion. For kids with depression, it’s a sign that they’re struggling internally and don’t know how to ask for help.

5. Low Self-Esteem and Feelings of Worthlessness

Teens with depression often struggle with negative self-talk and low self-worth. They might say things like, “I’m not good at anything,” “Nobody likes me,” or “I’m a burden.” These thoughts reflect an inner world filled with shame, guilt, and self-criticism. Pay close attention to how a teen talks about themselves. Repeated expressions of hopelessness or being “no good” deserve immediate attention.

6. Talk of Death or Self-Harm

This is the most urgent red flag and should never be ignored. Sometimes teens express suicidal thoughts directly, but often the signs are more subtle. They might talk about feeling like a burden, say things like “I wish I could disappear,” or begin giving away personal belongings. Some may engage in self-harming behaviors like cutting or burning themselves. If you suspect a teen is thinking about harming themselves, seek professional help immediately.

How You Can Help

If you recognize one or more of these signs in a teen you care about, don’t wait to act. Try expressing your concern in a nonjudgmental way. Say something like, “I’ve noticed you’ve been having a hard time lately. I’m here for you, and you don’t have to go through this alone.” Let them know that it’s okay to feel what they’re feeling. Depression therapy can be the help they need. Reach out to us today to find out the best approach for dealing with your teen’s depression.