Help Your Depressed Teen Feel Better Naturally

Antidepressants are often prescribed to young people, but there are alternatives to this risky treatment

There are many factors, from bullying to diet, that can be contributing to your teen's depression. Antonio Guillem/Shutterstock

The teen years are among the most exciting and challenging times of life. The experiences surrounding school, friends, dating, fluctuating hormones, and establishing one’s place in the world can be both invigorating and confusing. It’s a time when guidance, support, and understanding from family, friends, and professionals are especially critical.

It’s also a time when depression can be a significant issue. Depression affects up to one-fifth of teens by the time they enter adulthood. The presence of depression among teenagers increases the risk of attempting suicide by 12-fold, and 30 percent of depressed teens develop substance abuse.

Causes of Teenage Depression

The causes of teen depression can be difficult to resolve, but there are things you can do to combat this challenging condition. First, let’s look at some of the main causes of teenage depression.