By: Twinkle Garg- Principal Registered Psychologist.

Adolescence is a time of significant emotional, social and developmental change. Mood swings, wanting more independence and occasional withdrawal can all be part of growing up. However, when changes in mood, behaviour or functioning persist or become noticeably different from a young person’s usual self, they may be signs that something more is going on.

Recognising the early warning signs of depression can help parents, carers, teachers and other trusted adults provide support before difficulties become more overwhelming.

How Depression Looks in Teens

Depression does not always look like sadness in adolescents. While some young people may appear tearful or express feeling low, others may become irritable, angry, withdrawn or unusually quiet.

Some common signs may include:

• Losing interest in activities they previously enjoyed
• Spending significantly more time alone or avoiding family and friends
• Changes in sleeping patterns, including sleeping much more or having difficulty sleeping
• Changes in appetite or eating habits
• Reduced motivation or difficulty completing everyday tasks
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• A drop in school attendance, academic performance or engagement
• Increased irritability, frustration or emotional outbursts
• Feeling worthless, guilty or like a burden
• Talking about hopelessness or feeling that things will never improve

It is important to remember that one sign on its own does not necessarily mean a teenager is experiencing depression. What matters is the pattern, persistence and impact of the changes.

When Behaviour Changes Matter

Parents often notice behavioural changes before a teenager talks about how they are feeling. A young person who was previously social may suddenly stop seeing friends. Someone who enjoyed sport, gaming, music or other hobbies may lose interest. Others may become increasingly argumentative, sensitive or difficult to engage with.

These changes can sometimes be mistaken for “typical teenage behaviour.” While some changes are developmentally expected, it is worth paying closer attention when there is a significant change from the young person's usual behaviour or when changes begin affecting relationships, school, sleep, self-care or daily functioning.

It can also help to consider what may be happening around the young person. Stress at school, friendship difficulties, bullying, family changes, grief, chronic stress or other mental health concerns can contribute to emotional difficulties.

Rather than focusing only on the behaviour, try to become curious about what might be underneath it.

Seeking Early Support

If you are concerned about a teenager, you do not need to wait until things become severe before seeking help. Start with a calm conversation at a time when they are likely to feel comfortable.

You might say, “I've noticed you've seemed a little different lately, and I wanted to check how you're going.”

Listen without immediately trying to solve the problem. Let them know that their feelings are important and that asking for help is not a sign of weakness.

A GP, psychologist, counsellor or another trusted health professional can help determine what may be contributing to the changes and what support might be appropriate.

If a young person talks about wanting to die, suicide, self-harm or feeling that others would be better off without them, take these statements seriously and seek urgent professional support. If there is an immediate risk to their safety, call 000or attend the nearest emergency department.

Early support can make a meaningful difference. Most importantly, young people do not have to navigate difficult periods alone. Sometimes, simply noticing the change, starting the conversation and letting them know “I'm here with you” can be the first important step.