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The Role of Depression
and Anxiety in
Substance Use
Although it is common for teens to experience frequent mood swings,
your teen may be experiencing a form of depression if clusters
of the following thoughts, feelings, and behaviors persist for
two weeks or longer.
Prompt identification and treatment of depression
can reduce its durations and severity. Look for the following signs:
- Sadness that won’t go away
- Sullen,
silent, withdrawn behavior
- Persistent “boredom”
- Frequent
vague, non-specific physical complaints such as headaches,
muscle aches, stomachaches or tiredness
- Frequent absences from school or poor
performance in school
- Outbursts of shouting, complaining
or crying
- Unexplained irritability, anger, hostility;
reckless or rebellious behavior
- Alcohol or substance abuse
- Extreme
sensitivity to rejection or failure
- Feelings of hopelessness/worthlessness
- Changes
in eating or sleeping habits
- Lack of interest in hanging out
with friends
- Loss of interest in activities
- Social isolation,
poor communication, difficulty with relationships
- Recurring
thoughts of death or suicide
(Adapted from U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services publication)
KNOW YOUR FAMILY HISTORY of
mental health issues. Depression,
anxiety, addictive and compulsive behavior can have genetic components.
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