Depression affects people from all walks of life. Today, teenagers are increasingly likely to suffer from depression. Social media, isolation, video games, academics, and life pressure can all affect a teenager’s mental health. While depression is common, it still inspires a certain stigma. Despite this stigma, depression is treatable. Many mental health programs specialize in teen depression treatment.

If your teen is struggling with signs of depression, call Foothills at Red Oak Recovery for help. Learn more about our holistic depression treatment programs in North Carolina today. Reach our staff at 866.300.5275 for more information.

What Is Depression?

Depression is a mood disorder. Characterized by a downcast mood and a loss of interest in activities, there are many complex signs and symptoms of depression. Scientists understand brain chemistry shifts during depressive episodes. However, there are many things that impact depressive states. Some common signs of depression include:

• Increased fatigue or lethargy
• Lack of interest in various activities
• Self-isolation
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Weight loss
• Changes in academic or athletic performance
• Trouble concentrating

Teenagers’ moods change all the time. It may feel like your teen is depressed one day and fine the next. Symptoms of depression may come on suddenly and persist. During the winter months, your teen may suffer from seasonal depression, which occurs when the brain and body receive less natural sunlight. While bouts of depression are often part of life, long-term or severe depression may point to underlying mental and physical health conditions in need of treatment.

Overcoming Depression Triggers

For many teens, certain moods, places, behaviors, and comments can trigger depression. Social media can largely contribute to depression. A single photo or comment can have an adverse effect on teens and adults. Here are three ways to overcome depression triggers.

1. Learn your personal triggers and adapt accordingly: If you or your teen is triggered by social media, a family member, or particular behavior, do what you need for your mental health. This might mean different holiday traditions, social media detoxes, or avoiding films with certain themes.
2. Get outside: Studies show time outside can decrease depression and anxiety while promoting calm. Time spent outdoors can bring perspective. Exercise outdoors can also decrease depression.
3. Talk to an expert: A qualified therapist can make a world of difference when it comes to addressing depression triggers. Unfortunately, depression often causes withdrawal and makes reaching out difficult. The right therapist can help and offer coping tools.

While depression is common, it’s always best to seek professional help to address depression triggers and other mood disorders. Professional help can ease stress and help normalize depression.

Promoting Depression Awareness

Depression awareness is critical to improving personal and collective mental health. While it may be hard to confront your teen about their mental health, discussing your own struggles with mental health, seasonal depression, or depressive episodes can help. Open discussions can provide teens with a safe space to share their experiences and ask for help. It’s important for teenagers, especially, to understand that depression is a common, treatable, and manageable mood disorder.

Treat Teen Depression with Foothills at Red Oak Recovery

If your teen shows signs of depression, call Foothills at Red Oak Recovery today. Our holistic programs help adolescent men heal from addiction and co-occurring disorders. With an emphasis on outdoor and equine therapy, we help our clients find the right tools they need for holistic health. Clients at Foothills disconnect from the stress of social media and virtual worlds to reconnect with the natural world. Learn more about how Foothills can help your son. Reach us today at 866.300.5275 to learn more.