How parents, educators, and teens can spot early warning signs—and what to do next.
Teen depression is common, real, and treatable. It can show up differently than it does in adults, and it often hides behind “normal” teen behavior. This guide breaks down what to look for, how to tell typical ups and downs from red flags, and when—and how—to reach out for support.
Quick checklist: possible signs of teen depression
If several of these show up most days for two weeks or more, it’s time to check in and consider a professional evaluation.
- Mood: persistent sadness, irritability, emptiness, or anger; frequent tearfulness
- Interest: loss of interest in friends, sports, clubs, hobbies, gaming, or social media they used to enjoy
- Energy & sleep: fatigue; sleeping much more or much less; difficulty getting up for school
- Appetite/weight: significant increase or decrease in appetite; noticeable weight changes
- School shifts: drop in grades, missed assignments, truancy, declining focus or motivation
- Thoughts: hopelessness (“what’s the point”), guilt, low self-worth, feeling like a burden
- Behavior: withdrawal, isolating in their room, agitation, restlessness, reckless behavior
- Body cues: headaches, stomachaches, vague aches with no clear cause
- Safety: self-harm, talk of death, giving away belongings, searching for means, or substance use to cope
Emergency warning signs: talking about wanting to die, a plan or intent for self-harm, or behavior that suggests imminent risk. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also call/text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) anytime in the U.S.
“Isn’t this just teenage moodiness?”
Some fluctuation is normal. Here’s how to tell when it’s more than that:
- Duration: a tough day vs. a tough most days for 2+ weeks
- Depth: brief irritation vs. persistent sadness/emptiness/anger
- Domains: problems limited to one area vs. multiple areas (school, friends, family, sleep, appetite)
- Distress/impairment: feelings and behaviors that get in the way of daily life
What depression can look like in different teens
- Irritable, not just sad: many teens (especially boys) show depression as anger, sarcasm, or “shutdown,” not tears.
- High-achieving teens: perfectionism, overwork, or “I’m fine” masking exhaustion.
- Socially quiet teens: more isolation than their usual, skipping even favorite low-key activities.
- With ADHD: depression can ride along with attention issues—more negative self-talk, low motivation, and executive function crashes in the afternoon/evening. Teens with ADHD are at higher risk for mood disorders, so a change from their “typical ADHD” pattern deserves attention.
For parents & caregivers: how to start the conversation
- Pick a calm moment (car ride, walk, late evening).
- Lead with observations, not accusations:
- “I’ve noticed you’ve been sleeping a lot and skipping practice. I care about you and want to understand.”
- Ask open questions:
- “What’s felt hardest lately?” “When do you feel a little better?”
- Validate:
- “That sounds heavy. Thank you for telling me.”
- Collaborate on next steps:
- “Let’s talk with a professional together and make a plan.”
What not to do: minimize (“everyone feels sad”), pressure (“just try harder”), or jump straight to solutions without listening.
For educators, coaches, and school staff
- Notice patterns: declining participation, frequent nurse visits, sudden grade drops, or increased absences.
- Document & connect: brief notes + a private check-in. Loop in counselors per school protocol.
- Offer low-friction support: flexible deadlines, quiet test spaces, and consistent check-ins.
- Know referral paths: school counselor, 504/IEP options, local mental health providers, and crisis protocols.
For teens: if this sounds like you
- You’re not broken—and you’re not alone. Depression is common and treatable.
- Tell one safe adult (parent/caregiver, school counselor, coach, relative). If that feels hard, text 988.
- Try one small action daily: a shower, 5-minute walk, step outside, text a friend, or eat a snack.
- If you’re using substances to cope, that’s a sign you need more support, not a reason for shame.
When to seek professional help
Reach out for an evaluation if:
- Several checklist signs persist most days for 2+ weeks
- There are safety concerns, self-harm, or substance use
- Symptoms interfere with school, relationships, or daily functioning
- There’s a family history of depression, bipolar disorder, or suicide
What help can look like
- A comprehensive evaluation (medical, mental health, sleep, learning differences, ADHD screening)
- Therapy: CBT, DBT skills, family therapy, behavioral activation
- Medication: may be recommended after a thorough assessment; benefits and risks are reviewed together
- Whole-life supports: sleep routines, exercise, sunlight, nutrition, and structured school supports
Local support in South Dakota (Sioux Falls & Yankton)
If your family is in Sioux Falls, Yankton, or anywhere in South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Minnesota, Elevate Minds Psychiatry offers child & adolescent psychiatry, depression care, and ADHD evaluation/treatment via in-person and telehealth. Appointments are often available quickly.
How to prepare for an appointment
- Jot down examples of mood/behavior changes with approximate dates.
- List current meds/supplements and any prior therapy.
- Bring school info: report cards, teacher notes, 504/IEP plans.
- Share family history of mood or anxiety disorders.
- Ask about: therapy options, medication pros/cons, safety planning, and school accommodations.
Additional Resources:
NIMH: Teen Depression Brochure
CDC: Youth Mental Health Resources
Society for Adolescent Health & Medicine: Parent Resources
(This article is informational and not a medical diagnosis. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. For 24/7 support in the U.S., call/text 988.)
