Getting What You Need Out Of Counseling

Depression is a mental illness that can persist for years without proper treatment. Depression affects many people in adulthood, but it can also affect children and teenagers. Adequate treatment is vital for helping youth cope with the symptoms of depression, and a proper diagnosis can ensure that they get the help they need. Here are four types of depression that can be addressed by a depression treatment program for youth: 

1. Dysthymia

Dysthymia is a type of depression that often goes undiagnosed in teenagers. Dysthymia can sometimes be mistaken for ordinary teenage sullenness. In reality, it represents a low-grade depression that can cause persistent feelings of melancholy. People with dysthymia may feel "down" or "low" more often than their peers. If your child or teenager seems to struggle with friendships and daily activities, it's a good idea to have them evaluated for a mood disorder. Dysthymia can be treated with talk therapy in a depression treatment program for youth.

2. Major Depressive Disorder

Major depressive disorder is sometimes known simply as depression. Kids and teens with depression may show a lack of interest in games, sports, and other activities that used to bring them joy. Depression can also manifest as extreme irritability, which can cause teenagers to lash out at their friends, siblings, and parents. A depression treatment program can help teenagers find relief from depression using psychotherapy and antidepressants that are appropriate for teen use.

3. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Hormones can play a role in the moods of teenagers, especially during their years of puberty. Girls, in particular, can be affected by premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD may sometimes be mistaken for premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Unlike PMS, however, the symptoms of PMDD are severe enough to disrupt a person's life. Depression can be one symptom of PMDD. Getting teen girls evaluated and treated for this condition can help to stabilize their moods.

4. Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is distinct from depression but shares some similar features. People with bipolar disorder cycle through depression and mania. If your teenager is sometimes depressed and sometimes manic to the point of speaking too quickly to understand, they may suffer from bipolar disorder. A psychologist who works with youth can make a diagnosis based on your child's symptoms. The treatment for bipolar disorder is similar to that of depression. Teens with bipolar disorder may be given mood stabilizers to help them stop cycling while they attend a youth depression treatment program.

Contact a local depression treatment program for youth to learn more.