How can I tell if my teen is depressed?

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-27-2005
How can I tell if my teen is depressed?
1
Tue, 06-13-2006 - 12:46pm

First the background:

I was once diagnosed with severe clinical depression. After a year of meds and counseling, I learned how to recognize the signs so that I can take care of myself. I also learned to admit when I was angry. Also, dh is a recovering addict of 2 years. He is very much into recovery doing whatever it takes to be well physically, emotionally, and spiritually (IOW ... 12 steps).

Now to the teens: I have three teens - 17ds, 15dd, and 14dd. The 14dd recongized that something might not be "right" with her and asked me to set up an appointment with a counselor. After only one appointment, she is much happier, has developed some deep relationships, and is very open with me. My 15dd OTOH is extremely defiant. She bullies everyone in the house. She breaks into conversations just to make others feel stupid. 14dd and I are her most frequent targets. I am absolutely worn out by her. I love her dearly, but I am at the point where I don't want to be around her because she consistently tears down my boundaries.

I really think that she might be depressed, but I can't tell. Any advice would be helpful.

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-08-2005
Tue, 06-13-2006 - 5:41pm
i don't think she's depressed but i do think she is looking for attention. any kind. i am the target of my daughter age 15. she insults and puts down and is constantly nagging unless she want's something. then she's nagging on her father. arrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. hope u get some advice cuz i will be lurking in the back ground for it too.. ((hugs))