Is it just teenage moodiness, irritability or something more? The National Institute of Mental Health reports that about 3.2 million 12- to 17-year-olds have had at least one major depressive episode within the past 12 months. Often teens who are depressed struggle with anxiety and substance abuse, making it difficult to detect depression.
Research on the possible link of time spent on social media and adolescent depression continues to evolve. Early research suggested a possible link, although recent studies are reporting contrary results.
For this weekend’s reading, learn more about teen depression, how to recognize it and an innovative school program developed by the University of Michigan. Before you explore the articles, watch the approximately 2 minute long PSA on teen depression, “I’m Fine”, which has nearly 4 million views!
- PSA “I’m Fine”
- Pew Research Center: A growing number of American teenagers – particularly girls – are facing depression
- C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital: Mott Poll Report Recognizing Youth Depression at Home and School
- Pew Research Center: Most U.S. Teens See Anxiety and Depression as a Major Problem Among Their Peers
- New York Times: Panicking About Your Kids’ Phones? New Research Says Don’t
- University of Michigan: Tackling Teen Anxiety, Depression: U-M Focuses on Mental Health in Schools
