Identifying Students with Depression

According to a report issued by the United States Department of Education approximately 20% of all young women between the ages of 14-17 have suffered from some degree of depression. The rate for males is somewhat less. The study defined depression as “a period of at least 2 weeks where a person experiences a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities.” Middle to late adolescence has been identified as the most common age for the symptoms of depression first appear.

Teachers are in a unique situation to be on the front line of identifying students with depression. Sometimes, parents are too close to a situation and don’t realize what is happening. Peers may be more willing to commiserate with their friends feelings and able to understand that help may be needed.

Below is a list of some of the warning signs for adolescent depression:

·         Insomnia

·         Yo-yoing of weight

·         Poor self esteem

·         Difficulty in focusing on tasks

·         Chronic absenteeism

·         Talking or writing  about death or suicide

·         Running away from home

·         Drug or alcohol abuse

School districts should have a process in place to deal with students who have been identified with having symptoms of depression.  Many schools have guidance counselors, school psychologists or social workers who are trained to deal with students who exhibit symptoms of depression. Parents may also want to consult with their family physician or social service agencies that have counselors available to assist troubled teens. Additionally, many hospitals have psychologists on staff to deal with depression and crisis issues that they see when adolescents are brought to the ER.

Unfortunately, many of these symptoms begin to manifest themselves during the holidays. At this time of year teachers should be especially alert and sensitive to students who may be exhibiting some of the symptoms listed above.

This link to an article from the National Institute of Health may be another useful resource.

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001518.htm

As always, your comments and suggestions are welcome.

Copyright  2012. J. Margolis