How do you know the difference between a depressed and ordinary teenager?

razzle bedazzle: How do you know the difference between a depressed teenager and a regular teenager?
I feel like I have depression, but whenever I talk to someone about it they tell me it’s just part of being a teenager. How do you know if you’re really depressed or just regular?

Answers and Views:

Answer by Bla B
I’m 15, I was in that boat about a year ago, I’ve now been diegnosed with depression and I take medication for it and also have counciling

I think you should write down why youre feeling depressed. Then look at it..I think you’ll be able to tell if its all dramatics or not.

Also, if everyone’s telling you it’s just part of being a teen, it probably is!

Answer by Baby #2 due 3/17/09!
Depression in teenagers includes some or all of the following symptoms:
withdrawal from normal activities you enjoy
feeling of hopelessness/worthlessness
inability to concentrate
friends noticing you seem different/sad
decreased (or increased) appetite
insomnia, or sleeping too much

There are more, but these are the ones I remember. I was clinically depressed at age 15. I hope you get diagnosed soon so you can do whatever it takes to be happy again. Medication (if you find one that works) and counseling can help. I ended up in a mental hospital for 5 days. It’s normal to “feel” slightly sad/depressed once in awhile, but if it lasts more than 2 weeks, you should be concerned and get help. Turning to religion/spirituality may help.

Answer by Softball Luva!
Someone who is depressed usually won’t do the things that they used to love to do. They won’t participate in things that they used to all the time.

They also could be physcially hurting. Check out depression.com for more help.