Depression of Adolescents

Depressive feelings are common in adolescents: in the majority this is, however, a normative way of experiencing the growth and development of youth. In the evaluation of the depression of an adolescent, the present developmental stage of adolescence and events of life that could possibly affect mood should be taken into consideration . The depression of an adolescent may present by various symptoms, it can be masked, for example, by hobbies that are carried out fanatically or by disturbances of conduct (e.g., arguing, stealing, substance abuse). It is typical that the young person appears depressed only when he/she talks about the depression . Depressed adolescents smoke and use illicit drugs and alcohol more often that other young people . The depression of an adolescent is a psychiatric disorder that must be taken seriously and treated appropriately.