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Essay on Adolescent Depression
Introduction
Statistics concerning the prevalence of depressive disorders among adolescents are rare and imprecise (Kashani et al 1987). In the United States, it is reported that between 3 and 40% of adolescents present anxio-depressive symptoms (Garrison et al 1998; Kashani et al 1987). Moreover, the severity of depressive symptoms is hard to evaluate (Garrison et al 1998). However, a predominance of girls is always noted. Present data give us a partial and inadequate picture and the literature is still not clear on the following aspects: 1) the evaluation and measurement of depression among adolescents; 2) the distinction between temporary depressive symptoms and persistent depressive syndrome; and 3) the frequency of depression in adolescence.
Symptoms
The intensity of depressive symptoms is an important factor to consider but, at the same time, is hard to measure clinically. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish normality from pathology because of the emotional turmoil experienced during adolescence. The frequent mood swings of the ‘normal’ adolescent must be distinguished from long-term depressive states. However, the literature is vague on the definition of ‘persistence’ (i.e. feelings experienced ‘most of the time’ by the adolescent) (Garrison et al 1998). Intense and persistent depressive symptomatology is not a universal phenomenon of adolescence but rather the indication of pathology.
Causes
The causes of depression in children and adolescents are similar (Garrison et al 1998). Both biological and environmental components can produce the condition. In some cases, a biochemical imbalance in the brain can affect behavior and mood and cause depression. In other people, the stress of growing up and going through the trials and tribulations of adolescence can trigger serious depression. Painful life events such as the divorce of parents, the death of a close friend or relative, the breakup of a romantic relationship or problems at school can all push some young people into serious depression...............
