Troubled Teens

Desire to Escape can Lead to Suicide Attempts

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: death, depression, suicide

For Teens, Anxiety May Alter Ability to Perceive Dangers

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: anxiety, depression

Teens Affected by Mom's Depression

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, influences, mothers

Mood, Behavior Changes May Signal Depression

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: behavioral_issues, depression, mood_disorders

Troubled Teens Spread Despair on Cyberspace

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, influences, internet

A New Kind of Teen Depression

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: abuse, anxiety, depression

Depression in Parents Linked to Mental Problems in Their Kids

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

More Than Two Million U.S. Youths Depressed

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, studies, teen_issues

Doctors Warn Parents about Teen Suicide Warning Signs

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, depression, suicide

Depressed Teens Might Benefit from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

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, therapy, treatment_programs

Symptoms of Depression Often Hidden

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, symptoms, treatment_programs

Psychotherapy Plus Switching Drugs Can Help Teens with Clinical Depression

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, therapy, treatment_programs

Depressed Teens Get Better with Change in Treatment

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, therapy, treatment_programs

Trauma and Depression in Children and Teens

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, influences, trauma

More College Students Struggle with Mental Illness

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: anxiety, college, depression

Combination of Drugs And Therapy Best for Teens with Depression

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, and 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.

Learn how to recognize the risks of teen suicide and how to help your teenager at
BoardingSchoolsInfo.com.

Labels: depression, medictions, therapy

Combination Treatment Best for Depressed Teens

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, therapy, treatment_programs

Primary Care Physicians Not Treating Depression Appropriately

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, diagnosis, treatment_programs

FDA Warning Premature?

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

Discussing Problems Increases Depression, Anxiety

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 they’re 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: anxiety, depression, therapy

FDA "Black Box" Warning for Antidepressants may be Overstated

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

New Hampshire has Higher Rate of Teen Depression

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

Trichotillomania

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: behavioral_issues, depression, disorders

FDA Increases Warnings about Anti-Depressant Medication

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, medictions, mental_health

"Talk Therapy" Breaks at School May Help Depressed Teenagers

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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