Health Info

 

Adolescent Depression

 ​Adolescence is a critical transitional period in which individuals start exploring their identity and place in society. Adolescents who adjust well to this new developmental stage tend to relate more positively to themselves, their families, and their environment. Conversely, developing a mental illness during this period can have serious negative effects on physical, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual health that can persist into adulthood.

Depression is the top cause of illness and disability for adolescents (World Health Organization [WHO], 2017). Up to 25% of adolescents experience at least one major depressive episode by age 18. However, only 20% of adolescents with depression seek treatment, and fewer than 40% of those who receive treatment are adherent. Untreated adolescent depression is a primary cause of global disability and burden. Adolescents who experience depression and do not receive proper treatment are at increased risk of suicide, substance abuse, early pregnancy, low educational attainment, violence, recurrent depression, and poor long-term health (National Institute of Mental Health, 2014). Furthermore, adolescent depression usually follows a complex illness trajectory that can drain a significant portion of the individual’s and family’s health and resources. Therefore, early detection and appropriate interventions are crucial for adolescents experiencing depression.

 

See this video on adolescent depression produced by the World Health Organization: I Had a Black Dog, His Name Was Depression! .

 

See recent articles published on adolescent depression in Jordan:



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