Teen Mental Health: Debunking the Top Myths Surrounding Depression

While depression is considered as one of the most common mental disorders, this particular condition is still plagued with myths and misconceptions causing a lot of misinformation. That’s why the Serin Center aims to straighten things out on some facts that people often get wrong about depression.

MYTH 1: Happy People Can Never Have Depression

FACT: Even the happiest and most content people may develop this condition. The statement that happy people can’t have depression is one of the most common misconceptions about this mental disorder. 

Depression is a complex mental health condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their age, appearance or demeanor. Someone may appear happy on the surface, but there is still a possibility that they experience depression internally. Depression is not simply about feeling sad or unhappy; rather, it involves a range of symptoms, including persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating or making decisions. It’s crucial to understand that depression is a legitimate and treatable medical condition that can impact individuals from all walks of life.

MYTH 2: Coping with Depression Is Easy

FACT: Recovery from depression varies greatly from person to person. It also depends on various factors such as the severity of the depression, individual resilience, access to support and resources, and the effectiveness of treatment. 

While some individuals may experience significant improvement with treatment and support, others may struggle with persistent symptoms and require ongoing management. One thing is for sure, recovery is a gradual process which often involves strategies and treatments, including therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and social support. It’s essential for individuals experiencing depression to seek professional help and to be patient and persistent in their journey toward recovery.

MYTH 3: Change of Mood Among Teenagers Are Due to Puberty, but Never Depression

FACT: Generally, irritability and mood swings are common signs of puberty due to hormonal changes in teens. However, these symptoms are not solely attributed to this developmental stage in teenagers. Irritability and mood swings can also be signs of depression. 

Depression among teenagers can manifest differently than in adults. Rather than persistent sadness, in teens they tend to show irritability, anger, or hostility. 

That is why, it’s crucial to consider the possibility of depression when assessing mood changes in teenagers, especially if these changes are accompanied by other symptoms such as withdrawal from activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Early identification and intervention are essential for addressing depression in teenagers and promoting their mental health and well-being.

MYTH 4: Teens with Depression Are Loners

FACT: Loners are not the only ones susceptible to teenage depression. While social isolation can be a risk factor for depression, it can affect teenagers from all walks of life. Regardless of their popularity or social status, anyone can fall victim to this condition.

Factors such as genetic predisposition, family history of mental illness, traumatic experiences, chronic stress, and hormonal changes during adolescence can contribute to the development of depression in teenagers. Additionally, environmental factors such as academic pressure, peer relationships, family dynamics, and societal expectations can also play a significant role in teenage depression.

Therefore, it’s essential to recognize that depression can affect anyone, regardless of their social behavior or personality traits. Early identification and intervention are crucial for supporting teenagers’ mental health and well-being.

MYTH 5: It Is Easy to Recognize if Your Teen Is Depressed

FACT: Spotting depression in teenagers can be challenging because the symptoms may vary and can overlap with typical teenage behavior. However, there are certain signs that parents can look out for which are as follow:

• Changes in mood: Teens with depression may exhibit persistent sadness, irritability, or mood swings that are significantly different from their usual behavior.

• Loss of interest: They may lose interest in activities they used to enjoy, withdraw from friends and family, and isolate themselves socially.

• Changes in behavior: Teens with depression may experience changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and energy levels. They may have difficulty concentrating, experience restlessness or agitation, or engage in reckless behavior.

• Physical complaints: They may frequently complain of unexplained physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue.

• Academic decline: Depression can affect a teenager’s ability to concentrate and perform well academically. They may experience a decline in grades or show a lack of motivation in school.

• Expressions of hopelessness or worthlessness: Teens with depression may express feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt. They may also have thoughts of death or suicide.

• Changes in appearance: They may neglect personal hygiene or exhibit changes in grooming habits.

It’s important to note that experiencing one or more of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean that a teenager is depressed. However, if these symptoms persist for an extended period and significantly interfere with their daily functioning, it’s essential to seek professional help from a mental health professional or pediatrician. Early intervention and support can make a significant difference in helping teenagers manage their depression and improve their overall well-being.

Sources:

• 9 common depression triggers and causes: What causes depression? (2023) The Recovery Village Drug and Alcohol Rehab. Available at: https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/depression/depression-triggers/.
• Debunking myths of Teen Depression (2021) Johns Hopkins Medicine. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/debunking-myths-of-teen-depression.
• Erika’s Lighthouse (2023) 5 common myths about teen depression, Erika’s Lighthouse. Available at: https://www.erikaslighthouse.org/blog/5-common-myths-teen-depression/.
• Magazine, bp (2018) 11 myths and misconceptions of Teen Depression, bpHope.com. Available at: https://www.bphope.com/kids-children-teens/11-myths-and-misconceptions-of-teen-depression/.
• Mythsandmisconceptionsaboutdepression (no date) HealthHub. Available at: https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/mythsandmisconceptionsaboutdepression.
• Porter, E. (2017) 9 depression myths, Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/9-myths-depression#if-your-parents-have-it-so-will-you.