Depression in Adolescence Unipolar depressive disorder in children and adolescents is a problem across the world that has become very common, but is often not recognized correctly (Thapar, Collishaw, Pine, & Thapar, 2012). Depression in adolescents is associated with a substantial risk of suicide, is the second leading cause of death in this age group and at least half of those who attempted suicide have described symptoms associated with depressive disorders at the time of death (Hawthorn, 2009). Depression in adolescents also leads to multiple other problems throughout the lifespan of teenagers, which includes an increase in the rate of smoking, substance abuse and misuse as well as issues with obesity and weight control (Lewinsohn & Seely,
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There has been extensive research for a connection between environmental factors such as severe stress, long term adversity, bullying by other classmates and peers, financial depravity and illness and depression. These types of stressful life events are linked to the initial onset of adolescent depression (2012). Girls and individuals who suffer from more exposure to negative events in life show a greater risk. Family relationships at home that are negative, persecution through peer bullying, and abusive treatment are all common risk factors for adolescent depression (Saluja et al., 2004).
Depressive symptoms are also likely to coexist with behavioral problems in adolescents such as bullying and drug abuse. Adolescents who are involved in these types of behaviors might also have an existence of depressive disorders. Individuals who experience somatic symptoms such as headaches or physical symptoms are also more likely to suffer from depression as these factors often exist together …show more content…
Studies show that African Americans and Latinos have lower treatment rates for depression than Caucasians with controls present in studies for various factors; depression and treatment rates are “underestimated” and treatment programs are “inadequate” for minority populations (Kim, 2014, p. 2). Some of these disparities may occur due to minority populations not using available mental health services, the “[perceived] stigma related to treatment of mental health problems,” and/or a history of mistrust of medical professionals (Saulsberry et al., 2013, p. 151). Factors that protect adolescents from experiencing depression related symptoms include parent involvement, strong, positive peer relationships, and academic achievement (Kim, 2014). When these factors may not be present for minority adolescents, prevention strategies can be effective (Saulsberry et al., 2013). Cultural competency can no longer be ignored. Many of these disparities are because of providers’ or educators’ beliefs or attitudes towards the adolescent’s ethnicity (Kim, 2014, Respress, Morris, Gary, Lewin, & Francis, 2013). A multicultural approach imbedded in treatment programs produces better
There has been extensive research for a connection between environmental factors such as severe stress, long term adversity, bullying by other classmates and peers, financial depravity and illness and depression. These types of stressful life events are linked to the initial onset of adolescent depression (2012). Girls and individuals who suffer from more exposure to negative events in life show a greater risk. Family relationships at home that are negative, persecution through peer bullying, and abusive treatment are all common risk factors for adolescent depression (Saluja et al., 2004).
Depressive symptoms are also likely to coexist with behavioral problems in adolescents such as bullying and drug abuse. Adolescents who are involved in these types of behaviors might also have an existence of depressive disorders. Individuals who experience somatic symptoms such as headaches or physical symptoms are also more likely to suffer from depression as these factors often exist together …show more content…
Studies show that African Americans and Latinos have lower treatment rates for depression than Caucasians with controls present in studies for various factors; depression and treatment rates are “underestimated” and treatment programs are “inadequate” for minority populations (Kim, 2014, p. 2). Some of these disparities may occur due to minority populations not using available mental health services, the “[perceived] stigma related to treatment of mental health problems,” and/or a history of mistrust of medical professionals (Saulsberry et al., 2013, p. 151). Factors that protect adolescents from experiencing depression related symptoms include parent involvement, strong, positive peer relationships, and academic achievement (Kim, 2014). When these factors may not be present for minority adolescents, prevention strategies can be effective (Saulsberry et al., 2013). Cultural competency can no longer be ignored. Many of these disparities are because of providers’ or educators’ beliefs or attitudes towards the adolescent’s ethnicity (Kim, 2014, Respress, Morris, Gary, Lewin, & Francis, 2013). A multicultural approach imbedded in treatment programs produces better