Teens are subject to numerous stresses and pressures to prove themselves and their worth in their social circles. However, a lot of teens fall into deep depression traps while looking to prove themselves. Coming across failures and disappointments along the way, a number of teens turn reticent introverts who spend maximum energy depreciating self, instead of building a positive self-esteem.
Teens that show symptoms of depression begin by avoiding social contact and choose to isolate themselves from their friends and society. While other find solace in binge eating to hide the pain they feel inside, using food as a shield and safety blanket is common to depression.
Depression traps generate vicious circles that add to the child’s debilitated mood. Here are a few general depression ruts your child could fall into, addressing the issue immediately and getting started on positive reinforcement will set your child back on to a more positive and healthy life track.
Social alienation
Alienating self from society is a common and initial sign of depression seen in teenagers. Following through with the worst possible action when battling depression; depressive teens show a strong tendency to move away from social constructs and company. Teens suffering from depression pull away from their peers, family and friends, and begin to shut down internally, creating a gulf of separation between themselves and the outside world. Social alienation, according to expert psychologists, heightens stress responses, in addition to worsening state of mind and increasing a debilitative state.
Negative thought focus
Turning over negative thoughts and feelings of insecurity coupled by experiences of failure and loss cause the child the lose sense of self. This deadly train of thought leads to building more severe negative repercussions and situations that turn increasingly difficult to pull out of.
Ruminating on all things negative, children tend to perceive indifferent situations and experiences in a negative manner. Redirecting energies toward constructive and positive outcomes will help relieve stress.
Seeking escape with drugs and alcohol
Running from situations only makes them worsen over time. Teens that turn to excessive use of alcohol and drugs to find release from their depressive state, usually worsens the condition. Although alcohol temporarily relieves stresses formed due to social interactions, it has a more permanent depressive effect on the body’s nervous system, with increasing physical repercussions over time.
Avoiding exercise
Letting go of self, rather the inability or lethargic approach to regular exercise routine is a telltale sign of beginnings of depression. Depressive teens are hesitant to follow through with previously adhered to exercise regiments. Daily and routine exercise helps the brain beat depression as it causes increased levels of dopamine and serotonin, our body’s natural anti-depressants.
Gratifying sugar cravings
Depressed children are naturally drawn to food high in sugar and carbs since they temporarily alleviate anxious and sad mood swings. However, within a few hours blood sugar levels raised by excess sugar intake crash leaving the person in an even worse state. Finding comfort in junk food is the least healthy option when it comes to battling depression. Eat healthy and you will find yourself thinking clearer and better.