4 Troubled Teens Blog

Teen depression is a prevalent problem that has been associated with a wide range of physical, emotional and behavioral challenges. Now, researchers indicate that allergies may be associated with depression.

An April 8 MSNBC article bylined "Rick Ansorge, Eric Metcalf and the editors of Prevention Health Books" provided the following details about the possible link between depression and allergies:

Scientists acknowledge that allergens can contribute to mood alterations. In a 3-year study of 36 people with allergies, Paul S. Marshall, PhD, a psychologist at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, found that 69 percent reported feeling more irritable when their allergies flared up; 63 percent reported more fatigue; 41 percent said that they had difficulty staying awake; and 31 percent reported feeling "sad."

So the idea that allergies might exacerbate mild depression in a few people who have other allergic symptoms isn't that far-fetched to some researchers.

"My guess is if there is a connection, it is not true for all people with allergies or all people with depression," says Marianne Wamboldt, associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, both in Denver. "But for a small subset of individuals, it does appear that these conditions do seem to exacerbate each other."

Labels: depression, allergies, research

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A new study from The Netherlands found an association between depression and obesity: depression increases a person's risk for obesity, and obesity increases a person's risk for depression.

Dr. Floriana Luppino of the Leiden University Medical Center and her colleagues went through 15 previous studies involving 58,745 participants that examined the relationship between depression and obesity or being overweight.

"We found bi-directional associations between depression and obesity," Dr. Luppino said. "Obese persons had a 55 percent increase of developing depression over time. Depressed persons had a 58 person increased risk of becoming obese. The association between depression and obesity was stronger than the association between depression and overweight."

The association was also stronger among Americans than Europeans, and stronger for people who have been diagnosed with depression compared to those with depressive symptoms. Dr. Luppino said she believes that weight gain may be a late consequence of depression, so medical professionals should monitor depressive patients for weight gain, and obese patients for symptoms of depression.

This study appeared in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

Labels: depression, obesity

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A new study from Australia isolated three factors that put young people at higher risk for suffering from teen depression:

• Low levels of flexibility and positive mood
• Overprotective yet low-nurturing parents
• A pattern of suppressing the expression of emotions.

Researchers from Monash University compared 44 teenagers with self-reported depressive symptoms to 44 teenagers without such symptoms. The subjects were matched by age, gender and ethnicity. The depressed teens tended to be less flexible, less positive, and less emotionally expressive.

This study appeared in the British Journal of Developmental Psychology.

Labels: parental_involvement, depression

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Postnatal depression, and its effects on infants, gets a lot of attention. But a new study has found that moms mood during pregnancy deserves some attention, too.

A Feb. 5 article on MSNBC.com provided the following details about the study, which was led by Dale F. Hay, a professor of psychology at Cardiff University in Wales:

• The researchers reviewed data on 120 British teens and their parents from inner-city areas. The youth were interviewed at 4, 11 and 16 years of age.
• About one-third of expecting moms were considered depressed during pregnancy, which is higher than the current worldwide estimate of about 18 percent of pregnant women
• Teens born to mothers who were depressed during pregnancy were four times more likely than others to show violent behaviors by age 16.
  
• While 8.5 percent of teens born to chipper expecting moms showed the antisocial behaviors, about 29 percent of those born to depressed moms showed the same.
  

Labels: pregnancy, depression, research, aggression

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Spending too much time on the Internet can make you depressed, according to a new study from the University of Leeds in Great Britain.

Researchers were unsure if Internet use causes depression, or if depressed people are more likely to spend too much time on computers.

People who spend excessive amounts of time online are more likely than than average users to be looking at sexual and gaming websites and interacting on online communities. If they substitute real life relationships for online conversations, there can be a "serious impact on their mental health," according to Dr. Catriona Morrison, the study's lead author.

Labels: depression, addictions, internet

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According to a study published in the February issue of Pediatrics, teenagers are often the first to know when one of their friends is considering suicide. But they rarely turn to an adult for help.

"Thats one reason the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) is running a program at this summer's American Library Association annual conference on how to address critical and sensitive issues among teens, such as depression," the School Library Journal reported.

Workshops will also address building collections and programming that open the door for young people and adults to learn about teen-related issues and address their concerns. The annual conference runs the week of June 24 in Washington, D.C.

Labels: suicide, depression, prevention, librarians

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A controversial study in the Journal of the American Medical Association claims that popular drugs that are widely prescribed for depression only work in severe cases.

• Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania studied 728 adults after ranking their symptoms of depression.
  
• Those with moderate or minor depression receive little benefit from drugs like Lexapro, Prozac, or Paxil, which did not work better than sugar pills.
  
• However, those with severe depression, did benefit from the drugs.

"I think this study could dampen enthusiasm for anti-depression medications a bit , and that may be a good thing," said Dr. Erick Turner, a psychiatrist at Oregon Health and Science University. "People's expectations for the drugs will not be so high, and doctors won't be surprised if they are not curing every patient they see with medication."

Labels: antidepressants, depression, research

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Teenagers who go to bed after midnight are 24 percent more likely to become depressed, according to a new study from Columbia University Medical Center in New York.

• The researchers also found that teenagers who sleep five hours or less are 70 percent more likely to be depressed and 50 percent more likely to attempt suicide.
• Dr. James Gangwisch used data on 15,659 adolescents enrolled in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health.
  
• The average teenager sleeps seven hours 53 minutes per night, about one hour less than the nine recommended by physicians.
  

Insomnia can be a symptom of depression, Dr. Gangwisch noted. Inadequate sleep is also linked to a higher rate of accidents, lower productivity, and increased daytime fatigue.

Labels: depression, mental_health, sleep

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Today's high school and college students are reporting more symptoms of depression and other types of mental illness more often than young people did in previous generations.

• A study of more 63,000 students begun in 1938 finds that students are more isolated, misunderstood, and emotionally unstable than students in the 1930s and 40s.
• They are more narcissistic, have lower self control, and express more feelings of worry, sadness, and dissatisfaction with life.
• Eighty-five percent of today's college students scored below average in mental health measures such as the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory.

Some experts say the changes in scores are due to increasing American materialism.

"When you talk about generational change, as this study does, it's really about changes in culture," Dr. Jean Twenge, associate professor of psychology at San Diego State University, said in a Dec. 10 article by Courtney Hutchison of ABC News. "These results suggest that as American culture has increasingly valued external and self-centered goals such as money and status while increasingly devaluing community, affiliation, and finding meaning in life, the mental health of American youth has suffered."

If parents are under too much stress, they become role models for putting work and success first and relationships second, said Dr. Bruce Rabin, director of the Healthful Lifestyle Program at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

"Children learn from those they love," Rabin told ABC News. "If their role models are short tempered or tell children to leave them alone because they are under a lot of stress, that will have an effect on the child's mental health development."

Labels: depression, mental_health

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The prevalence of suicide thoughts and attempts among teenagers remain distressingly high. Many suicide attempts are related to teen depression -- but there are steps parents can take to support their teens, and help them manage situations that can trigger depression.

The Mayo Clinic advises parents to take the following five steps to lessen the likelihood that their children will suffer from depression -- and to increase the odds of identifying and treating the disorder should it occur:

1. Praise your child's skills.
2. Encourage your child to participate in organized activities.
3. Encourage your child to stay physically active.
4. Provide emotional support and guidance to your child.
5. Talk to your child.

Studies have also found that children who struggle academically at a young age develop symptoms of depression early. Getting involved in your childrens education from the beginning, offering support and praise for areas in which they do well, can help reduce or eliminate depressive symptoms.

Labels: parental_involvement, depression, prevention, teens

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Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, depression and other pediatric mental health issues are more likely to drop out of school, according to a new study from Australia.

Study author Steven Lehrer, a professor at Queens University, believes that since poor mental health has an impact on how long children and teenagers stay in school, policymakers should consider how to identify such issues in early childhood and develop interventions.

This study, published in the Forum for Health Economics and Policy, won the RAND Corporations Fuchs Research Award.

Labels: depression, prevention, mental_health, dropouts

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Lack of sleep may cause depression in teenagers, according to Dr. Allison Harvey, a psychologist at the University of California. Previously, most experts believed that depression caused lack of sleep.

• Dr. Harvey noted that one in five teenagers experiences depression -- and of that group, one in three will not respond to treatment.
• She and her colleagues are studying 60 middle and high school students at the UC Sleep and Psychological Disorders Laboratory.
• If their theories are correct, sleep could become a treatment option for depressed teenagers.

Studies show that very few teenagers get the recommended nine hours of sleep per night; in fact, the average is seven hours of nightly shuteye.

Labels: depression, mental_health, sleep

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A British study found that people who eat junk food are more likely to be depressed. Though the study focused on adults, the results could bode ill for young people who are developing poor eating habits.

• Dr. Archana Singh-Manoux and her colleagues studied more than 3,500 middle-aged people, dividing them into two groups.
• The first group ate a diet of wholesome foods, such as fruits, vegetables and fish.
• The second group ate a diet of mainly processed foods, such as fried foods, processed meats and desserts.
• People in the second group had a 58 percent higher risk for depression.

Dr. Singh-Manoux reported being unsure if this finding could be explained by some other lifestyle factors not considered in the study, which appears in the British Journal of Psychiatry.

Labels: depression, diet, nutrition

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Teens who suffer from depression are more likely than non-depressed teens to experience depression during adulthood -- which can also put them at risk for a number of other conditions, including obesity.

Adults who have depression or anxiety are one third more likely to become obese, according to a new study in the British Medical Journal.

Researchers studied 4,363 British civil servants ages 35 to 55 years old over a nine-year period. Those who had common mental health disorders were at the greatest risk for weight gain and obesity, even when other factors were excluded.

Labels: depression, obesity

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A study that was published in the British Journal of Psychiatry has revealed that being depressed as a teenager was a risk factor in developing adult depression and other mental health problems.

Study author Dr. Jeffrey Johnson said he was not sure if adolescent depression was an early phase of adult depressive disorder, or if it contributed to its development.

Dr. Johnson and his colleagues studied the 750 people ages 14 to 16 years old, and retested them as adults. Their risk for adult depression was four times higher if they had experienced minor depression as teenagers.

Labels: depression, mental_health

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Because symptoms of mild depression can be subtle, few people recognize them. And those who do rarely seek help, believing that mild depression is something they should be able to handle on their own.

However, as relationship coach Susan Britt wrote in the Sept. 25 edition of the Gloucester (Mass.) Daily Times, depression isn't something that a sufferer can overcome through willpower alone:

More than 14 million Americans suffer some degree of depression. Many do not seek treatment because they don't recognize the symptoms: a loss of self-esteem and interest in life, appetite and sleep changes, difficulty remembering and concentrating, frequent periods of negativity or sadness. You don't need to experience all or even most of these symptoms to be depressed. ...

When considering all the possible contributing factors, it becomes apparent that depression has little or nothing to do with free will. It is also important to understand that because genetics and physiology are not a matter of choice, sufferers cant just "snap out of" depression. No one chooses to be depressed. ...

Depression can be successfully treated. Take the first step toward recovery for yourself or someone you care for by reaching out for help.

Labels: depression, treatment_programs

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Earlier this year, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force issued a recommendation that pediatricians begin regularly screening their patients for depression. A questionnaire was made available that asks how often patients have felt sad, had a hard time sleeping or thought of hurting themselves.

According to a Sept. 13 Patriot-News article by Carolyn Kimmel, the effort has resulted in improved efforts to identify potential problems -- but the increased screenings haven't been accompanied by more efficient access to treatment:

Left untreated, mental health disorders in children and adolescents lead to higher rates of suicide, violence, school dropouts, family dysfunction, juvenile incarcerations, alcohol and other drug use, and unintentional injuries, the CDC reports. ...

Nationwide and locally, there is a shortage of child psychiatrists, which makes getting an immediate appointment a challenge. ...

The severity of symptoms dictates how fast the process moves, said Launa Snyder, outpatient coordinator for Behavioral Health Services at Holy Spirit Hospital, the designated crisis intervention center for Cumberland and Perry counties.

"If someone is suicidal, that is taken tremendously seriously, and it may require a hospitalization," she said. "For someone who is not having suicidal thoughts, it can be a couple weeks before they get in to see a psychiatrist."

Providing at-risk youth to prompt treatment for teen depression is an essential step in ensuring that they have the best possible chance to overcome the obstacles that are preventing them from pursuing successful and satisfying lives.

Labels: depression, mental_health, treatment_programs

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Most parents probably don't worry about depression and related mood disorders in their children until the teen years. But a new study indicates that even infants can suffer from these and other mental health problems.

A new study from Canada found that almost 15 percent of preschoolers have high levels of depression and anxiety. Children whose mothers are depressed are at high risk for the disorder, which can show up even in five-month-old babies.

Dr. Sylvana Cote of the University of Montreal and her colleagues are studied 1,758 children from Quebec for five years.

We found that lifetime maternal depression was the second most important predictor of atypically high depressive and anxiety problems during preschool years, Dr. Cote wrote. Difficult temperament at five months was the most important predictor of depression and anxiety.

The study appeared in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry.

Labels: depression, anxiety, infants

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“Why didn’t I see it coming?”

When someone commits suicide, loved ones often ask themselves why they didn’t notice the warning signs. In retrospect, it may be possible to point to indications that something wasn’t right. But in real time, suicide warning signs aren't always easy to spot.

In an article that was distributed by Massachusetts' Coulter Press, psychiatrist Philip Gottlieb advised parents, teachers and other concerned parties to be on the lookout for subtle signs that might indicate that a child is at increased risk of suicide:

“Look for standard signs of depression, changes in sleep patterns, appetite, not wanting to do things that formerly interested them, a general loss of interest," suggested Gottlieb, medical director of Clinton Hospital’s Geriatric Medical Psychiatry Unit.

Suicide is the third-leading cause of death among people 25 and younger. Most people think suicide would never happen to anyone they know, but if you suspect someone may be at risk, don’t hesitate to get them help.

Labels: suicide, depression, sleep problems

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A new study finds that there could be advantages in teaching children resilience, positive emotions, and a sense of purpose -- advantages that include reducing the risk of teen depression. according to Dr. Martin Seligman of the University of Pennsylvania, children who have these positive qualities are less likely to be depressed and more likely to have higher grades:

An Aug. 7 press release provided the following details from Dr. Seligman's research:

• Dr. Seligman and his colleagues reviewed 19 studies begun in 1980 of more than 2000 children ages eight to 15 years old.
• Some of the children were enrolled in the Penn Resiliency Program and the Positive Psychology Program, programs that taught assertiveness, creative brainstorming, decision-making, relaxation, and other coping skills to help them handle everyday stress and problems common to adolescents.
• Dr. Seligman found that the programs reduced the children's sense of hopelessness, anxiety, and depression, and increased their enjoyment and engagement in school.

"It is important to start in the formative school years, so positive thinking and resilience are instilled and available to handle future challenges," Dr. Seligman said Aug. 8 during a presentation at the 117th annual convention of the American Psychological Association.

Labels: depression, research, optimism

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An influential 26-year study of 847 individuals that ended in 2003 found that if people had a certain gene, they were more likely to become depressed after a traumatic life event such as bankruptcy or death of a loved one.

The same study found that if people had a different gene variant, they were more likely to go through such events without experiencing major depression. This study was widely accepted and became the basis of a belief that depression is an organic disorder that can be treated through medication.

Now a new study reports having found "no evidence of an association between the serotonin gene and depression," even if a person experiences a traumatic event. The new study, led by Dr. Neil Risch and Dr. Kathleen Merikangas, is an analysis of 14 previous studies.

In their report in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Drs. Risch and Merikangas indicated that they believe that the old study had flaws. They also wrote that the old study was widely accepted before it was widely duplicated.

Labels: depression, research, genetics

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Many depressed teenagers do not seek treatment -- and a new study from the Rand Corporation indicates that they may be avoiding treatment for their depression because they are afraid of their parents' reactions.

According to details of the study that were published in journal Medical Care, Lisa Meredith and her colleagues studied 368 teens (half of whom suffered from depression) and their parents:

• The teens and their parents were asked to answer which of seven barriers to treatment were most important.
• Parents tended to answer that none of them were important, but the teens listed "not wanting family members to know about their depression" as significant.
• Other barriers such as cost, time constraints, problems finding a doctor, or just not wanting treatment were less important to teens.

Meredith pointed out that parents often have to become involved in treatment by providing transportation and paying for it, so it is important for "doctors to get a sense of not just what the teen thinks or the parent thinks, but what both think."

Teens with untreated depression are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol, become parents at an early age, to have low grades and social problems, and commit suicide.

Labels: depression, teens, treatment_programs

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Teens who drink when they are depressed are more likely to have suicidal thoughts, according to a study that was published in the Journal of Adolescent Health.

Dr. Elizabeth Schilling of the University of Connecticut Health Care Centerstudied 32,000 young people in grades three to 12. About 12 percent said they drank when they were depressed. Of this group, one in five had attempted suicide. "Drinking while down was associated with significantly greater risk of suicide attempts among those not reporting suicidal ideation in the past year," Dr. Schilling said.

With teen suicide rates remaining disturbingly high, experts advise parents to be on the lookout for any indications that their children are suffering from depression or are engaging in substance abuse as a means of dealing with stress and pressure.

Labels: suicide, depression, teenagers, substance_abuse, drinking

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A study that was conducted at the University of Oxford (England) has revealed that children whose fathers suffer from depression are at increased risk of developing anxiety, depression, and substance abuse disorders. In a May 3, 2009, article on British news website Telegraph.co.uk, medical correspondent Kate Devlin reported the following about the Oxford study:

Children whose parents suffer from depression in the weeks after their birth are twice as likely to go on to develop behavioural and emotional problems.

Teenage children of depressed fathers are also more likely to go onto develop depression themselves and even consider suicide, while alcoholic fathers are more likely to have children who suffer from mood disorders, depression and get hooked on drink and drugs.

The report also shows that teenagers whose parents suffer from manic depression, also called bipolar disorder, are up to 10 times more likely than their classmates to develop the condition themselves and between three and four times more likely to develop other psychiatric illnesses.

Previous studies have noted that as many as 20 percent of all teenagers suffer from depression, with more than 70 percent of teen depression cases going undiagnosed or untreated.

Labels: depression, mental_health, mental_illness, teenagers, fathers

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Your teenager's next visit to the doctor could include an emotional check-up as well as a physical one. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force recently recommended that kids between the ages of 12 and 18 be regularly screened for depression -- a recommendation that has moved teen depression to the forefront of adolescent care.

Major depression affects more than 5 percent of teens and is linked with suicide, substance abuse and other serious problems. Yet it often goes undiagnosed and untreated. (Source: USA Today)

The Task Force has urged the screening for all teenagers, not just those who appear to be "troubled," and recommends a simple questionnaire as a starting point.

Regular screening should continue throughout adolescence, the task force recommended, even if no "red flags" are raised during the initial evaluation.

Labels: depression, mental_health, mental_illness, teenagers

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Divorce is hard on every family it touches. Sometimes an unintended consequence is that the kids feel responsible -- thinking they did something wrong, something that caused one of their parents to want to leave.

Attorney-at-law Marjorie Shaw-Currie has seen instances like these as marriages dissolve in the divorce court. In fact, she said these situations are not rare and, when they occur, she prescribes counseling ... Divorce brings many changes, and changes are hard for children ... They may wonder, 'If my parents stop loving each other, can they stop loving me?' -- Source: Cleaner News (Jamaica)

Psychologist Karen Richards says parents should reassure their children of their love and ensure them that they are not to blame for their parents' divorce. During and after a divorce, every family member will need time to process and to grieve. Make sure kids have an opportunity to do this, whether it's through talking to a parent, confiding in a teacher, or attending sessions with a trained pediatric counselor.

Regardless of parents' marital status, keeping the lines of communication open is an important part of promoting healthy childhood development, and has even been cited as a means of reducing adolescent and teen depression.

Labels: parental_involvement, depression, children, divorce

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First and second graders who report above average levels of anxiety are more likely to be depressed as adolescents. Girls in primary grades who exhibit anti-social behaviors are particularly at risk.

Researchers from the University of Washington followed 800 children in first and second grade until they entered the eighth and tenth grades. Dr. James Mazza and his colleagues asked the children, their family, and teachers about their levels of depression, social skills, and anti-social behaviors.

"One finding from this study that is a mind-grabber is that young children can identify themselves as being anxious and depressed," said Dr. Mazza. "We were a bit surprised because we thought they'd say, 'My life is fun and I play a lot.'" This supports the notion that even children as young as 6 years old can provide valuable information about themselves.

Boys who display anti-social behaviors and anxiety as very young children often continue to "act out" in anti-social ways. Girls tend to turn their anxiety inward, and suffer from eating disorders, anxiety, and suicidal behaviors as adolescents.

This study appears in the Journal of Early Adolescence.

Labels: depression, children, teenagers

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Many college girls experience depression. But what affects them in college starts long before they get there, and parents can help prevent those issues by cultivating a close relationship with their teenagers.

"Recognize that to be in touch requires new communications skills, and they have to be learned if you expect to connect with and understand these kids. All the skills that worked up to this point no longer work."

Building the relationship takes time that many parents feel they don't have. But the long-term benefits to both parents and children indicate that time spent in conversation is time well spent. Source: Psychology Today

Labels: parental_involvement, depression, communication

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Children who experience poverty at very young ages have a harder time as teenagers, according to a new study from Iowa State University Institute for Social and Behavioral Research.

Early "socio-economic adversity" affects later mental health, making it harder for a teenager to transition successfully into adulthood, according to the decade-long study of 500 families from Iowa.

Dr. K.A.S. Wickrama, professor of human development and author of the study, said that one of his main findings is that early family adversity is linked to depression in adolescents, making it harder for them to successfully transition into adulthood and reach their full potential socially, academically, and occupationally. This effect increases if a child also experiences disruptive events along with poverty.

Dr. Wickrama said his work indicates that poverty is passed down from one generation to the next through such mechanisms as adolescent depression.

This study appears in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior.

Labels: depression, mental_health, poverty

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A study from Tufts University and the Universite de Montreal found that teens from poor neighborhoods are four times more likely to attempt suicide than are those from more affluent areas.

"We observed that community adversity could amplify a young person's vulnerability to consider suicide," wrote study author Eric LaCrosse.

The researchers also found other risk factors in poor teens, including hyperactivity, impulsivity, depression, substance abuse, family history of suicide, low levels of social support, and negative life events such as the death of a parent or a painful romantic break-up.

The research team surveyed 2779 teens in early adolescence and then again at ages 18 or 19 years old, asking them questions such as, "During the past year, did you seriously think about attempting suicide? If so, how many times did you attempt suicide in the past year?"

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people ages ten to 24 years old. According to guidelines from the Mayo Clinic, signs of suicide in teenagers are depression, low energy and motivation, anger or rage, oversensitivity to criticism, poor grades, decreased concentration, changes in sleep or eating habits, restlessness, talking about death, cessation of regular activities, and withdrawal from friends and family.

This study appeared in the journal Psychological Medicine.

Labels: suicide, depression, poverty

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Has your teenager become irritable and angry? Is he defiant, skipping school or getting into fights? Maybe she's withdrawn and sullen, or doesn't care about her grades anymore. If so, your teen could be struggling with depression.

"Although the majority of depressed teens do not suffer from major medical illness or become suicidal, every depressed teen experiences a barrier to effective living and learning. Unless this barrier is lifted, every teen is at risk for more serious problems that can result from chronic depression."

Depression in teens can be triggered by a variety of factors. In general, teenagers don't have the coping mechanisms that adults have. Thus, they may believe that the negative feelings they experience when a relationship ends, or when there's trouble at school, are going to last forever. Teens in this situation need the help of a professional, such as a therapist, school counselor, or family physician. Source: Statesman Journal (OR)

Labels: depression, angry, defiance

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For many teens who attempt suicide, dying seems like the only way out of a seemingly impossible situation, or away from extremely painful thoughts or feelings.

"A teen with a sufficient network of friends, family, religious organization, peer groups, or extracurricular activities may have an outlet to deal with their frustrations. But many teens don't believe that they have this type of support and report feeling disconnected and isolated from their loved ones. These teens can be at risk for suicide."

Suicide is the third-leading cause of death among youth aged 15 to 24, following accidents and homicide. Youth with psychological issues or a family history of psychological issues are believed to be at greatest risk, experts say.Source: Kauai Garden Island News

Labels: suicide, depression, death

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Teens with high anxiety levels perceive threats when conditions are actually safe, according to a new study from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Dr. Michelle Craske and her colleagues are in the fourth year of an eight-year study to identify which factors put teens at risk for adult depression.

At the beginning of the study, the 650 participants were sixteen years old. They receive a mild electric shock when a screen became red, but no shocks when they were before a green screen. Teens with high levels of negative emotions, such as fear, anger, sadness, and shame, were more likely to tense up and have higher startle responses even when their screens were safe or green.

Dr. Craske believes that these teens are at risk for depression and anxiety as adults.

This study appears in the journal Biological Psychiatry.

Labels: depression, anxiety

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Maternal depression increases a teenager's risk for depression, even if the teen is adopted, according to a study from the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Erin Tully and colleagues studied 568 adopted adolescents and 446 teens who were living with their biological parents. Depression in mothers, but not fathers, increased the likelihood of the teen having depression and behavioral problems, including juvenile delinquency. This was true in both groups, but especially in non-adoptees, which implied a genetic component as well.

If a mother responded successfully to interventions, such as medication and psychotherapy, her child's mental health improved too.

This study appears in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

Labels: depression, mothers, influences

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Teens who struggle with depression, anxiety and/or suicidal thoughts may not know how to verbally tell someone they're in trouble. But they know how to show it.

"...depression manifests itself differently in boys and girls. 'Boys show depression through anger or temper outbursts; it's unusual for a teen boy to show sadness,' said Mr. Butero. 'Young people, especially adolescent boys, mask depression as anger. Acting-out behaviors are often as much of a cry for help.'"

A Harvard study found that less than half of teen patients that struggled with depression expressed classic symptoms - instead, they developed a mix of mood and behavior problems, such as agitation or defiance. Source: SouthCoast Today (MA)

Labels: depression, behavioral_issues, mood_disorders

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Social networking sites can be great places for teenagers to make friends and find acceptance. But they can also enhance feelings of grief, sorrow and despair.

"Cyberspace is fertile ground for suicide contagion. It provides a forum for prolonged and excessive grieving in a highly charged, emotional atmosphere - precisely the kind of atmosphere psychologists warn to avoid. ... It is also unmonitored by all but the most vigilant parents."

Psychologist and counselor Scott Poland warns that continued exposure to tragedy, especially suicide, puts a teenager at increased risk. It's a healthy warning for parents to pay attention to the social networking worlds in which their children spend so much time.

Labels: depression, internet, influences

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For decades, childhood depression has been linked to issues such as abuse, abandonment, brain injury, and chronic anxiety. But British Columbia Children's Hospital psychiatrist Jane Garland wants to add something to the list: "affluenza".

"Children who are overly indulged or who use a depressive coping style may develop what she calls 'learned helplessness' and can be heard saying things such as, 'Nothing ever works out for me,' or 'There's no use trying,' or 'Nothing I do ever makes a difference.'"

Affluenza is seen as an increasing problem among today's teenagers, many of whose parents are detached and uninvolved, and who rarely suffer consequences for their actions. The lack of attention and discipline creates a mindset in the children that they can get whatever they want with little or effort. Doses of reality - a low test score, or not being selected for a school sports team - can trigger depressive episodes. Source: Canwest News Service

Labels: depression, anxiety, abuse

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If parents suffer from depression, anxiety, or panic disorders, their children are at risk for multiple anxiety disorders, according to a new study from Harvard University.

Dr. Joseph Biederman, a psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital, compared four groups: children of parents with panic disorder but not depression, children of parents with major depression without panic disorder, children of parents with both maladies, and children of parents with neither one. Parental panic disorder was linked to increased risk for panic disorder and agoraphobia in children, and parental depression was linked to social phobia, depression, disruptive behavior disorders, and poor social functioning in children.

"Recognizing that children at a very young age can be at high- risk for emotional distress can go a long way toward doing something for them in early life," Dr. Biederman said.

This study appears in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

Labels: depression, genetics, mental_health

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A recent study found that more than two million U.S. teenagers had a serious case of depression in the past year, with nearly three times more girls than boys having a serious depressive episode.

"They defined a major depressive episode as two weeks or longer of depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure, and at least four other symptoms such as problems with sleep, energy, concentration or self-image."

More than 67,000 young people responded to questions about mood and depression. Results of the study showed that 12.7 percent of girls and 4.6 percent of boys were affected by depression in the past year. Source: Reuters

Learn more at About Teen Depression.

Labels: depression, teen_issues, studies

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Teens that injure themselves, take life-endangering risks, or have explosive personalities are more likely to commit suicide, two psychiatrists warn parents.

Speaking at a conference on suicide this week, Dr. Barbara Stanley said that self-mutilation in any form can be a warning sign, whether it's a girl burning herself with a cigarette or a boy who carves a friend's initials in his arm.

"Once you start to hurt yourself," she said, "it is a closer step to do the next type of hurting."

She said that recklessness, such as walking on a steep rooftop, also could be a sign of suicide ideation.

Dr. Eric Fombonne, director of the McGill University Department of Psychiatry, said teens that are "easily irritated and explosive" need to be monitored, too.

Teen suicides are increasing, especially among girls aged 10 to 14 years old. Girls attempt suicide two to four times more often than boys; however, boys complete suicides five times as often as girls. Suicide attempts peak between 16 and 18 years old.

Labels: antidepressants, suicide, depression

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A new study of clinically depressed teens found that while many respond well in the beginning to drug treatments alone, they might need cognitive-behavioral therapy later to sustain their improvements and prevent recurrences.

Dr. Paul Rohde of the Oregon Research Institute studied 242 teens that had been treated for depression. One group had drugs alone, the second group had cognitive therapy alone, and the third group had a combination of the two.

After three months, the combination group had the best result, with a 71% response, compared to 68% of the drug-alone group and 42% of the therapy group. However, six months later, 97% of the teens in the therapy-alone group were maintaining their improvements, compared to 89% in the combination group and 74% of those who only took drugs.

Dr. Rohde and others believe that teens may respond to drugs initially and then hit a plateau, so that after a while, they benefit from psychotherapy.

This study was published in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

Labels: depression, treatment_programs, therapy

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Randy Cameron was shocked, as was his whole family, when his teenaged niece committed suicide. Even though she struggled with depression, no one thought suicide was a possibility.

"Teens possess a lack of, or inadequate, coping skills in handling depression, MacDonald said. In her profession, she sees 16-year-olds living the lives of 20-year-olds. They may be going to school, but they are working jobs and in relationships... It's a difficult task to get teens to admit their own feelings..."

Joyce MacDonald is a high school counselor who has seen her share of troubled teens. She emphasizes the important of recognizing the signs of depression, like a sudden change in grades or mood. Source: Leduc Representative

Labels: depression, treatment_programs, symptoms

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A new study funded by the National Institute of Mental Health found that depressed teenagers who are not responding to medications often improve under cognitive behavioral therapy and a new drug regime.

Researchers led by Dr. David Brent of the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine studied 334 teens for three months. These teens were suffering from severe clinical depression - some had dropped out of school - and had not responded to a two-month treatment of drug therapy. The researchers divided the teens into groups and noticed improvement in 55 percent of the group that underwent therapy and switched to a new drug.

"These findings should be encouraging for families with a teen who has been struggling with depression for some time," Dr. Brent said. "Even if a first attempt at treatment is unsuccessful, persistence will pay off."

This study appears in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Teenage depression is a serious and scary condition that many families experience. Learn how you can help your teen at About-Teen-Depression.com.

Labels: depression, treatment_programs, therapy

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A recent study funded by the National Institute of Mental Health found that teens who don't respond to an initial treatment for depression often respond when the treatment is changed. The study was conducted in six clinics with 334 teens, 12 to 18 years old, who had not responded well to a first treatment course.

"About 55 percent of those who switched to either type of medication and added CBT [cognitive behavioral therapy] responded, while 41 percent of those who switched to another medication alone responded."

Results of the study should be encouraging to teens and families of teens who have been struggling with depression without seeing many positive results from treatment. Read more at NIH.gov.

An adolescent residential treatment center, like Aspen Ranch in Utah, offers treatment programs for troubled teens and way to help their families. Learn more at AspenRanch.com.

Labels: depression, treatment_programs, therapy

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Though the holidays are officially over, many children and teenagers are still recovering from extended periods of time with family members. The holidays are hard for teenagers who come from extremely dysfunctional homes. They will likely to be looking to teachers, counselors, school administrators and other adult influencers for advice and guidance.

"For children who attempt to regulate problem drinking or to stop family fights, teach them that young people are not equipped to solve serious family problems. The more you can lighten the heavy responsibilities that these children carry, the more you may be able to help lessen the depression, despair or withdrawal that the child experiences."

It's also helpful to remind teens that the holiday images conveyed by advertising and marketing campaigns are unrealistic. Very few (if any) families have that picture perfect holiday celebration. Talk about this, and help the teen develop more realistic expectations for future family gatherings.

The Academy at Swift River is a private high school for teens in New England. If your teen would benefit from a structured, therapeutic boarding school environment, then the Academy at Swift River is a great choice.

Labels: depression, trauma, influences

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A 2004 survey conducted by the American College Health Association found that nearly 15 percent of all college students meet the criteria for clinical depression. Another seven percent have been diagnosed with anxiety disorders.

"Sophomore Taylor Evans believes that 'the stress and constant worry about keeping grades up and passing classes combined with having to struggle to figure out what it is that you want to do for the rest of your life' are primary causes behind these illnesses."

The American Psychiatric Association, on its website, offers suggestions for helping young college students avoid things like depression and anxiety. Getting enough sleep, sticking to a regular schedule, and maintaining a proper diet are just a few of their tips.

College students who need a healthy, structured living environment can find their place at NorthStar Center. Located in Bend, Oregon, NorthStar offers an aftercare program for older teens and young adults.

Labels: depression, anxiety, college

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Depressed teens who take anti-depressants as they undergo "talk therapy" are more likely to recover than those who take drugs or therapy alone. Talk therapy also protects them from having suicidal thoughts.

• A federally funded study involved 327 teenagers over a six-month period who were divided into three groups.
• The first group took fluoxetine (Prozac) by itself
• The second had only talk therapy
• The third group had a combination of the two.

Those in the combination group had the best outcomes. The ones who took fluoxetine alone had twice the number of suicidal thought compared to the other two groups.

The study was published in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

Labels: depression, therapy, medictions

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A recent study conducted by a team from Duke University shows that treating mildly to severely depressed teens is best done with a combination of medication and cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT). Cognitive-behavior therapy teaches teens how to recognize and appropriately handle the distorted thoughts and feelings that lead to depression.

"After 12 weeks, 73 percent of patients receiving [Prozac] and CBT, 62 percent of those receiving [Prozac] only and 48 percent of those receiving CBT only responded to treatment."

After 36 weeks of treatment, the combination group still had the highest percentage response. Depression currently affects 5 percent of the adolescent population, increasing the stress of family relationships and the risk of suicide.

DrugRehabTreatment offers information and help for parents dealing with adolescent drug treatment.

Labels: depression, treatment_programs, therapy

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Teens that struggle with depression and receive treatment from their primary care physician may not be getting the treatment they need. A study released by RAND Health showed that primary care physicians appropriately adhered to just one third of the 20 quality measures studied.

"The study also found that patients who received better-quality care reported fewer symptoms of depression up to two years after the start of treatment. The findings are among the first linking quality guidelines for depression treatment with improved patient outcomes in community settings."

While primary care physicians were good at diagnosing and initiating treatment for depression, their follow-up treatment was poor.

The Aspen Institute for Behavioral Assessment can provide a psychological evaluation, an emotional behavior disorder diagnosis, and a psychosocial assessment.

Labels: depression, treatment_programs, diagnosis

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In 2004, research on the dangers of antidepressant medication caused the FDA to issue black box warning. The warning stated that "antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents..."

"The result was a decrease in the prescription of antidepressants to teens by over 50%, and an increase in suicides."

The 18% increase in teen suicides has causes many to question whether the FDA acted prematurely in issuing the black box warning. Some are now calling for the warning to be repealed. Experts urge parents to seek medical treatment for their teen if he or she is extremely depressed and/or at risk of attempting suicide. Read more at MovingOutMovingOn.BlogHi.com.

Worried that your teen is suffering from depression? Learn about the diagnostic services available at The Aspen Institute for Behavioral Assessment and get your child help today.

Labels: antidepressants, depression, medictions

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A recent study of over 800 students found that depression and anxiety increase in girls who constantly talk about their problems. The study's lead author, Amanda Rose, said the results may indicate that girls tend to blame themselves when theyre not popular or aren't dating the boy of their dreams.

"The study's findings add a cautionary note to the perennial advice to the young that they should always talk about their problems instead of bottling them up. 'Talking about problems is a good thing, but too much talk is too much of a good thing,' said Rose."

Though boys didn't seem to be affected by how frequently they talked about their problems, girls seemed to find themselves in a vicious cycle. Talking about their problems made them feel more anxious and depressed, which caused them to want to talk more about their problems, which led to greater feelings of depression and anxiety. Read more online.

Learn more about teen depression, including ways to help and treatment options, at About-Teen-Depression.com.

Labels: depression, therapy, anxiety

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In 2004, the FDA issued a "black box" warning on prescription antidepressants. The warning stated that certain antidepressant medications could increase suicidal tendencies in patients under 25 years of age. A recent study by the American Journal of Psychiatry has found that warning to be false.

"In a study of more than 100,000 patients treated for depression, suicide attempts declined during the first month of treatment - whether that treatment consisted of medication, psychotherapy, or both."

Dr. Greg Simon, MD, authored the study, which is the first of its kind to compare the risk of suicide before and after patients have begun treatment for depression. Read more at ScienceBlogs.com.

If your teenager has shown a persistent pattern of irritable, depressed, or hopeless behavior for more than two weeks, it may be due to clinical depression. Learn more about teen depression, including the signs of teen depression and treatment options for depressed teens at www.about-teen-depression.com.

Labels: antidepressants, depression, medictions

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A recent federal study has found that New Hampshire is one of ten states that ranked higher than the national average for instances of teen depression. While the national average is 8.8 percent, New Hampshire averaged between 9.4 and 10.4 percent along with Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Kentucky, Main, Nevada, Utah and Washington.

"Symptoms of a 'major depressive episode' include a depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure for two weeks or longer, and changes in sleeping, eating, energy, concentration and self-image, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders."

Some mental health experts have questioned the study, but agree that teen depression is a national problem that can be difficult to understand. Read more at NashuaTelegraph.com.

Labels: depression, mental_health, studies

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Trichotillomania is the medical term for someone who suffers from compulsive urge to pull his or her hair out. The action is often accompanied by a feeling of relief or the release of tension. Though it was first mentioned in the media in 1989, it is believed that there are as many people who suffer with this condition alone as there are people seeking help.

"Dr. [Catherine] Madigan is quick to point out that it is unusual for Trich sufferers to be open about their disorder because of the obvious hair loss, and the stigma that is considered abnormal behavior not only by themselves but by society. She adds that Trichotillomania is very similar to other psychological problems with respect to the silence and social stigma."

Hair pulling is often associated with depression, and can lead to low self-esteem and social insecurities. Some have classified as an obsessive compulsive disorder, but it's more an issue of impulse control and may be precipitated by a stressful event such as a death or divorce in the family. Read more online.

Help for parents of troubled teens can be found at ByParents-ForParents.com. Parents of troubled teens can get help in the form of online resources, articles with tips for parents of teenagers, and a forum where parents can post and answer questions themselves.

Labels: depression, behavioral_issues, disorders

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The FDA has expanded it's "black box" warning on antidepressant medications to include not only teens, but young adults up to 24 years old. The new warning calls for weekly face-to-face contact with patients, their family members or caregivers during the first four weeks of treatment, as thoughts of suicide may increase in young adults who are taking antidepressant medication.

"A study released last year showed that 66 percent of children and teens did not see a clinician for a follow-up in the first four weeks after their antidepressant therapy began."

The American Psychiatric Association lauded the FDA's recommendation. Read more at PalmBeachPost.com.

Depressed teenagers can benefit from equine therapy. Learn more about equine therapy at Copper Canyon Academy.

Labels: depression, mental_health, medictions

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A pilot study by the University of Michigan suggests that young people with emotional problems could benefit from "talk therapy" in a school setting.

The researchers provided individual therapy to 45 students, and group therapy to 60 others. The sessions took place at two middle schools and one high school in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, Michigan. Using standardized measuring tools, the researchers found that the students who underwent therapy learned to recognize and partly overcome mild depression, anxiety and anger problems. By the end of the study, students reported fewer angry feelings toward their teachers and improvements in problem-solving ability. The depressed students experienced elevated mood levels and better cognitive skills.

"Many studies have shown that cognitive behavioral therapy can help young people with mood and anger issues, but this is the first time that an adapted form of this evidence-based therapy has been shown to work in a school setting," said author David Neal, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan Medical School's Department of Psychiatry.

Other studies found that teenagers will not seek out therapy in community centers, even if their teachers or doctors refer them.

Neal and others presented the findings at April 12, 2007 Conference of the Society for Social Work and Research.

Private boarding schools that combine academics and therapy can help troubled teens who have lost their way. Learn more about therapeutic boarding schools at TeenBoardingSchools.com.

Labels: depression, schools, therapy

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Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke can experience depression and mood changes, according to two new studies.

• Dr. Mark Hamer of University College London found that people exposed to secondhand smoke undergo changes in hormones that regulate stress, which in turn may cause them psychological stress.
• He studied 5,569 smokers and 2,595 smokers, having them provide saliva samples and answer questionnaires.

"Our data are preliminary, but there is a strong possibility that the observed association reflects a causal link," Dr. Hammer wrote in a report published in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

The second study found increased depression among people experiencing secondhand smoke. Dr. David Lee of Miami Miller School of Medicine, whose study was published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, based his conclusions on an analysis of data from a survey of 3,000 adults.

Labels: depression, tobacco use

Posted By: Troubled Teens 1 Comment

Some studies have found that teenagers, more than any other age group, are prone to chronic depression and suicide. Parents should know the risks and signs of depression in teens.

“Chronic depression has been shown to be at least partially genetic. Depression is a chemical condition. When an individual is depressed, their brain fails to produce certain chemicals that would normally allow for a happier state of mind. These chemicals are controlled by structures in the brain that are passed down the family line.” [Source: Jacksonville Parenting Examiner]

In addition, women are more prone to depression than men; especially severe depression. Other factors include a child’s personality (how does she handle stress?) and stressful life events like the death of a loved one or even a poor test grade.

Labels: suicide, depression, symptoms

Posted By: Stefanie Hamilton 2 Comments

New research out of China finds that kids who spend an excessive amount of time online are at increased risk of becoming depressed teens. Dr. Lawrence Lam of the School of Medicine in Sydney studied over 1,000 teenagers and their Internet usage for nine months.

Lam studied 1,041 teens aged 13 to 18 from high schools in Guangzhou, China, and measured internet use with the Pathological use of the Internet Test (including such questions as "How often do you feel depressed, moody or nervous when you are offline, which goes away once you are back online?" [Source: Psych Central]

At the end of nine months, depression was two-and-a-half times as prevalent among teens who had “problematic” Internet-use habits. Dr. Lam believes his study shows a more concrete cause-and-effect relationship between excessive Internet use and depression.

Labels: depression, internet

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Studies presented at the American Psychological Association meeting in early August showed that trauma suffered during childhood can trigger a host of challenges.

"Our latest research shows that those reporting multiple adversities could shorten their life span by seven to 15 years," says Janice Kiecolt-Glaser, a health psychologist at the Ohio State University College of Medicine. "What we have is clear evidence that adverse childhood experience may have lasting, measurable consequences."  [Source: DailyComet.com]

More than 130 adult participants completed questionnaires for the study, answering questions about their childhoods. Those whose parents had severe marital problems, witnessed abuse or were victims of abuse were more likely to show symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Labels: depression, anxiety, trauma

Posted By: Stefanie Hamilton 1 Comment

Boys who eat more fish than average are less likely to be depressed, according to a new study from Japan.

• Researchers studied 3,067 boys and 3,450 girls ages 12 to 15 years old.
• Based on their scores on a scale from the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression, 22% of the boys and 31% of the girls were depressed.
• Having a diet high in fish provided some protection to boys against being depressed, but the same was not true for girls.

The study was published in the journal Pediatrics.

Labels: depression, diet, nutrition, boys

Posted By: Jane St. Clair 0 Comments

Depressed people may actually have bipolar disorder even if they don't experience full-blown episodes of mania, according to a new study from the National Institute of Mental Health. The study found that depressed people who have short episodes of increased energy and activity and especially those with a family history of bipolar disorder are at risk for the disease themselves.

• The old thinking was that bipolar disease is characterized by depression followed by episodes of mania that last several weeks or months.
• During the "manic" phase of bipolar disease, the person may go without sleep, have increased levels of energy and activity, speeded-up thinking and euphoria.
• Then the person "crashes" into depression, often accompanied by suicidal thoughts.
• This new study indicates that depressed people who experience low levels of mania, even an episode lasts just a few hours or days, may actually have bipolar disease.
• Dr. Kathleen Merikangas, an investigator with the Intramural Research Program at the National Institute of Mental Health in Maryland, used information about mood disorders gathered from more than 5000 households in her study.
• Dr. Merikangas said that people who have up-and-down shifts in moods, even ones that are short, should be evaluated by mental health professionals.

"There is a continuous shading from pure depression to classic bipolar disorder," said Dr. Gregory Simon, a psychiatrist and chair of the scientific advisory board of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. "This study gives stronger evidence for that continuous shading and demonstrates more clearly that milder symptoms of hypomania are truly related to bipolar disorder."

The study appears in the American Journal of Psychiatry.
 

Labels: depression, bipolar, mental_health

Posted By: Jane St. Clair 1 Comment

Depressed teenagers who attempt to self-medicate by using cigarettes to fight depression may actually be making their depression worse, according to a new study from the University of Toronto and the University of Montréal in Canada.

• Researchers interviewed 662 high school students from a variety of backgrounds,.
• The researchers divided the students into three groups -- those who never smoke, those who use cigarettes to enhance their mood or physical well-being, and those who do not use cigarettes that way.
• Then the researchers measured the students' levels of depression by asking questions such as "how often do you feel too tired to do things," "how often do you have trouble going to sleep," and so forth.

"Smokers who use cigarettes as mood enhancers have higher risks of elevated depressive symptoms than teenagers who never smoked," said Professor Jennifer O'Loughlin, a co-author of the study and a professor at the University of Montréal. "Our study found that adolescent smokers who reported emotional benefits from smoking are at higher risk of developing depression."

The study appears in the journal Addictive Behaviors.

Labels: depression, tobacco use, smoking

Posted By: Jane St. Clair 1 Comment

Recent studies have found that, unfortunately, teen depression is on the rise. Parents and other caregivers, in their attempts to help, sometimes inadvertently say things that are unhelpful or downright hurtful.

“What to say: You’re not alone in this. What NOT to say: There’s always someone worse off than you are. What to say: You are important to me. What NOT to say: No one ever said that life was fair. What to say: I can’t really understand what you are feeling, but I can offer my compassion. What NOT to say: Believe me, I know how you feel. I was depressed once…” [Source: Health.com]

People who struggle with depression don’t need to know that we understand as much as they need to know that we love them and will be there for them whether we understand or not. We need to remember that there are no simple solutions (or causes) for depression.

 

Labels: depression

Posted By: Stefanie Hamilton 1 Comment

The transition to college can be a stressful one. New city, new roommate, big campus... it’s a lot of change. For years, people have said that transition is harder at some schools than others; the classes are more challenging and expectations are higher, making kids at those schools more susceptible to mental illness and even suicide. But is that true?

“Suicide can be highly imitative in nature. That means it often occurs in clusters – both on and off college campuses. Any given school can go years without a single student suicide and then have half a dozen or more within a year or two.

But the idea that some schools are particularly prone to suicide – because they are too demanding or attract a certain type of student – is not supported by research.” - Source: Newsweek

Fortunately, most schools are equipped to help students who struggle with anxiety, stress, depression and other mental illnesses.

 

Labels: stress, suicide, depression, students, anxiety, college

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