Depression in Teens

Teen depression can be treated. Our experts are here to help.

Request Free Consultation Call Us

Takes one minute. No obligation.

Understanding Teen Depression

RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS Teen depression is a serious mental health issue that goes beyond just feeling sad. It can cause persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest in activities. This affects how teenagers think, feel, and behave, often leading to emotional, functional, and physical problems.

WHAT MAKES TEEN DEPRESSION DIFFERENT?

  • Hormonal changes during puberty
  • Increased academic pressure
  • Social challenges such as peer pressure and bullying
  • Family conflicts or dysfunction
  • Traumatic experiences or adverse childhood events
  • Genetic predisposition to mental health issues
  • Limited coping skills and emotional regulation abilities
    BestMind teen patient with depression.

    Expertise Matters

    CLINICAL LEADERSHIP

    Understanding the nuanced clinical aspects of teen depression is essential for effective treatment. It demands a comprehensive approach, considering biological, psychological, and social factors. As a high-risk population, it is important to ensure your team possesses the expertise needed to navigate these complexities with skill and compassion. Our experts are not just dedicated clinical experts but thought leaders in depression treatment.

    BestMind teen with depression.

    Treating Depression in Teens

    BestMind evaluation logo

    Step 1: Clinical Evaluation

    Teens meet with a licensed mental health expert to talk about symptoms, experiences, and goals. Parents and caregivers may also be involved to provide additional insight and support.

    BestMind treatment logo

    Step 2: Find Out if TMS Is Right

    Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a safe, non-invasive therapy that uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain linked to depression. For teens who have not responded well to traditional treatments, TMS may provide an alternative path to relief.

    Best Mind relief logo.

    Step 3: Ongoing Care and Support

    If TMS is recommended, your teen will complete a personalized treatment plan with ongoing support from our care team. Families are included throughout the process to ensure long-term success and healthier coping strategies at home and school.

    Learn More About TMS for Teens

    Have more questions about depression?

    Call us
    How is teen depression treated at BestMind Behavioral Health in Oregon and Washington?
    Teen depression treatment at BestMind Behavioral Health includes comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and specialized adolescent mental health care at our Portland, Northeast Portland, Salem, Bend, Clackamas, Eugene, and Vancouver locations. Our licensed psychiatrists, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners provide evidence-based treatments and family involvement in treatment planning. We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments throughout Oregon and Washington, with appointment availability within 3–4 days for new teen patients requiring depression care.
    What are the warning signs of depression in teenagers?
    Teen depression goes beyond typical adolescent moodiness and includes persistent symptoms lasting two weeks or longer. Warning signs include persistent sadness or irritability, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, changes in sleep patterns (sleeping too much or too little), significant changes in appetite or weight, difficulty concentrating on schoolwork, withdrawal from friends and family, frequent physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches, risky behaviors, and expressions of hopelessness or worthlessness. Unlike adult depression, teens may show more irritability and anger rather than obvious sadness. At BestMind Behavioral Health locations throughout Oregon and Washington, our adolescent mental health specialists can help distinguish between normal teenage behavior and clinical depression requiring professional intervention.
    What causes depression in teens and how is it diagnosed at BestMind Behavioral Health?
    Teen depression develops from multiple factors including hormonal changes during puberty, genetic predisposition, brain chemistry imbalances, academic pressures, social challenges like bullying, family conflicts, and traumatic experiences. During comprehensive psychiatric evaluations at BestMind Behavioral Health locations throughout Oregon and Washington our providers assess these contributing factors along with symptoms, family history, and functional impact. We use evidence-based assessment tools and clinical interviews to distinguish teen depression from normal adolescent development, ensuring accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

    Depression in Teens Free Consultation Request