Depression: Facet of an adolescent’s life
Depression: Facet of an adolescent’s life
Depression is a significant problem that can influence every facet
of an adolescent’s life. If depression is untreated it can inevitably
result in problems within their family and school environment and
lead to drug abuse, violence, and suicide. Fortunately, this disease
can be treated before irreversible tragedy occurs. Contributing
factors that can lead to adolescent depression are peer pressure,
sports, hormone imbalance, and body changes. Extreme stressors
in home, school, personal, and social life can also contribute to
feelings of depression in the adolescent. Signs and symptoms of
depression within this age group that can extend into adulthood
are irritability, anger, unexplainable aches or pains, extreme
sensitivity to criticism, and withdraw from family, friends, and
activities. An example of primary prevention that targets this
disease would include an adolescent depression awareness
program to provide education to individuals within this age group.
Secondary prevention can be provided through early detection
and treatment if signs and symptoms of depression are present.
Tertiary methods may include psychological interventions to treat
an individual experiencing active adolescent depression including
interpersonal therapy. Depression can be very damaging if left
untreated and if warning signs are observed community resources
are available such as the Health Care Alliance for Response to
Adolescent Depression (HEARD). This resource provides
information on disease prevention and promotion, mental health,

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