Teen depression isn’t always sadness. Sometimes it shows up as anger. Sometimes it looks like a teen who sleeps all day, avoids everyone, or seems completely unmotivated.
Depression is real—and it’s also highly treatable with the right support.
Signs of Depression in Teens
Depression may look like:
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or numbness
- Irritability and mood swings
- Isolation from friends and family
- Loss of interest in activities they used to love
- Changes in eating or sleeping
- Low motivation and fatigue
- Trouble concentrating
- Negative self-talk (“I’m not good enough,” “Nothing matters”)
Why Teen Depression Often Gets Missed
Teens may mask depression because they:
- Feel ashamed or don’t want to seem weak
- Don’t want to worry parents
- Think it’s “normal teen stuff”
- Don’t have language for what’s happening
How Therapy Helps
Therapy supports teens by:
- Creating a safe space with no judgment
- Helping them understand emotions and patterns
- Building coping strategies that actually work
- Improving family communication and support
- Rebuilding confidence and emotional resilience