Depression is a significant problem that can influence every 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, and local community resources available to the public. In the state of Arizona “You are not alone network,” provides education to families struggling with adolescent depression.
References
Health Care Alliance for Response to Adolescent Depression. (2018). Reach out, Respond, React. Retrieved from http://www.heardalliance.org/
You Are Not Alone Network. (2015). Arizona Resources. Retrieved from http://youarenotalonenetwork.org/resources/state-r…
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