Millicent has been teaching at the university level since 2004. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and a Master's degree in Human Resources.
Rebecca is a 17-year-old high school junior who is having a tough time in her calculus class. She is determined to do well, but no matter how much she studies has difficulty understanding the material. She is becoming increasingly frustrated and frequently engages in negative self talk. She feels stupid and is anxious and worried about passing the class.
The stress and overwhelming feelings that Rebecca is experiencing is a normal reaction that many teenagers experience for many different reasons. Simply stated, stress occurs when we view an event as threatening us in some way. The threat might be real, such as when someone is chasing us with an intent to do us harm, or it might be perceived meaning that others may not view it as terribly threatening, but for some reason we do. Some of the major causes of stress identified by teens include:
Stress can be adaptive or maladaptive. Adaptive stress is stress that can be considered positive. For example, a teen who is stressed about taking a chemistry exam may actually feel as though they need to study harder and, as a result, earn a higher grade. Stress can help us become more focused and increase awareness of our surroundings, which is good when it happens for a valid reason, but not when it occurs over a prolonged period of time. Maladaptive stress is stress that occurs over minor events and persists over time. This type of stress can lead to both physical and psychological consequences including depression.
Teenage depression is a serious psychological disorder that can arise when stress is left unchecked and unmanaged. The following symptoms are often seen in teens that may be suffering from depression:
If teenage depression is suspected, a medical professional should be consulted as soon as possible so that an official diagnosis can be made and appropriate interventions can be determined.
According to the American Psychological Association, almost half of all teens report that they don't know how to cope with stressors; stressors that have the potential to leading to depression. The following are some ways teens can deal with stress and depression and keep things under control:
Stress and teenage depression are commonly dealt with by millions of teens who face a multitude of pressures. Stress occurs when something is perceived as a threat. This threat can be real or perceived and include things ranging from dealing with relationships and exams to finding the time to balance multiple responsibilities such as school and work. Stress can be adaptive, and beneficial, or maladaptive, and harmful. When stress is maladaptive and persistent over time, it can lead to depression.
There are things teens can do to deal with stress and depression. Some of these include eating a healthy diet, exercising and being active, having a positive outlook, and talking to others about their worries and concerns. It is important to remember, however, that if things don't seem to be improving, medical professionals should be consulted.
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Mental Health Study Guide10 chapters | 141 lessons
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