The teenage years are among one of the most difficult years that a person has to go through. This is a time where actions are often misinterpreted and the aim to balance almost everything in life is greatly sought. During this time, the teenager who manifests symptoms of depression may be viewed as acting out or seeking attention. If not given immediate medical attention, depression can have disruptive effects to the adolescents life which the individual can carry on until adulthood. Antidepressant medications including Paxil has been prescribed in patients with depression but some filed Paxil lawsuits because of the negative effects of the drug on them. When faced with this situation, the suffering individual must be reassured that he or she is not alone and that help is available.

Depression in Teens: Common Signs

Signs and symptoms of depression may be generally true for all but there are signs that are more noticeable in a specific gender or population such as adolescents like:
Being frequently irritable, sad or annoyed
Too much or too little sleep
Sudden weigh gain or weight loss without trying to
Easily cries on even the most mundane things
Degree of concentration is decreased
Feels hopeless or helpless even with constant help and reassurance
Has thoughts of death and/or suicide

Handle Teenage Depression

If you notice that your teen has any symptoms of depression, it would be best to act on it immediately. Prompt actions can give more favorable results more so prevent the occurrence of suicide. If you are in the situation, you are strongly advised to contact your doctor or a specialist. If a specialist or physician is not yet available, the following interventions can be made.

Support your teenager
Show your teenager that youll always have his/her back no matter what happens. In showing support, also make sure that a line will be drawn so your teenagers will not feel like theyre being patronized as they usually dislike such.
Learn to listen
Take some time to listen to your adolescent. Oftentimes, they want someone who they can share their thoughts and feelings without having to fear that theyll be judged or lectured.
Encourage your teenager to open up
Most teenagers avoid their parents because they see them as persons of authority. Generally, parents are encouraged to reach out to their teenagers and establish a connection. In teenage depression, the parents or the primary caregivers should exert more effort to make their teenagers comfortable in sharing their feelings and emotions. However, parents must also consider their childrens privacy and sense of security while trying to establish a connection.