(NNPA)�Youthful years are supposed to be a time of carefree living. However, many youth find themselves feeling depressed, detached and lonely. Many lack self-esteem, use drugs and/or alcohol in attempts to cope, and even contemplate or attempt suicide.

Although there are many mental health issues relative to the teen years, depression alone is serious, and is more common among adolescents than previously believed. It is well known that teens with depressive illness who do not receive help often turn to suicide as the only way out. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death among those 15-24 years old. Every day in the U.S. nearly 2,000 adolescents attempt suicide. Approximately six actually do. Females attempt suicide three times more than males; however, males actually commit suicide three times more than females.

There is no accurate estimate of the countless number of young people who struggle to exist from one day to the next, in emotional pain and despair. This group of silent sufferers are the victims of the public�s misperception and unhealthy attitudes toward mental health in general, and an almost complete failure to recognize mental health issues in children.

Most adults tend to minimize sadness in youth in the belief that depression does not affect the teen sector, and that teens have nothing to be saddened or worried about. It is important to recognize that depression is an illness, not a personal weakness or imperfection. It must be diagnosed and treated.

Adolescents with depressive illness feel sad and sullen and often view their situation as hopeless. This sadness is not usually relieved by interaction with family members or friends, extra privileges or receiving money. Too often, well meaning families can be seen�in an effortful, yet futile, waltz�trying to make their depressed loved one happy. This is not to say that there is not normal sadness among adolescents which can be relieved by family interaction and socialization; however there is a clear difference. The difference between "normal" adolescent sadness and depression is based on the severity, duration and magnitude of change from the youth�s usual behavior and personality. There is a strong familial link in depressive disorder, and as a result of this, teenagers who have depressed parents, grandparents or other family members, will sometimes become depressed when under stress. Again, caution should be taken here, to not simply associate the teenager�s depression with other family members (i.e. "it runs in the family"), thereby minimizing his/her symptoms, delaying treatment and inadvertently reinforcing the teenagers feelings that nobody cares.

There are certain events that increase the adolescent�s risk for depression and suicide:

�Loss of a parenting figure by death, divorce or separation

�Loss of important peer relationships, (i.e.: breakup with a boyfriend/girlfriend)

�Family violence/discord/abuse (physical or sexual)

�Academic decline and failure at school

�Alcohol/drug abuse (this is usually a symptom of a more enduring problem)

Depression in adolescents presents the same symptoms that are characteristic of adults. However due to their age, their symptoms may be viewed or expressed differently. Marked sadness may be expressed by wearing dark clothes, writing morbid poetry or school compositions or displaying heightened interest in music with death themes.

Sleep patterns may be reversed. Depressed teenagers usually "don�t do mornings" on a CONSISTENT basis. They may watch TV or listen to music all night and sleep during the day, therefore having difficulty getting up for school.

Lowered energy levels may be present, creating a lack of motivation, poor class attendance, and the "bored" syndrome in which they show total disinterest in almost everything.

Poor concentration and slow thought patterns may manifest themselves in poor academic performance, irritability, fatigue and low tolerance for the slightest provocation.

Adolescent depression may also present itself in the form of behavior or conduct problems or substance use. There may be noticeable peer conflicts, frequent fights and arguments and defiance toward adults and authority.

Increased risk-taking behaviors and/or social withdrawal may be present.

Loss of appetite can occur and may be expressed in the form of eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia.

Numerous complaints of unfounded physical problems are common.

Response to teenage depression must be swift and should begin with adult interest and awareness. Adults who have daily contact with adolescents, must LISTEN to them. Special effort should be made to show genuine concern and to validate the teenager�s feelings and problems without patronizing. Adults should convey caring and understanding to teenagers without minimizing or trivializing their problems.

In communication with a teen, adults must stay focused on the problem at hand, and should not rush to take away their pain with promises of future success in school, work or interpersonal relationships. Remember that adults don�t need to have all the answers. It is beneficial to help a depressed adolescent form a circle consisting of other family members, friends, school and church. Encourage a youth to talk to others as well as to you. Help to create opportunities for socialization and enjoyment; however don�t attempt to force them to be happy and have fun.

Parents should review their parenting practices. Use positive discipline. Creating shame and punishing may increase feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy and promote detachment from others. The adults involved in the depressed teenager�s life should not expect immediate improvement. Rather, they should remain objective and maintain an understanding and learn to recognize an improvement in symptoms.

It is important to recognize when professional help is needed. Attempts to seek help should first be discussed with the teenager. Too often parents and family members take an adolescent to seek mental health care without first discussing the issue. This usually results in an angry, deceived teenager who often feels forced and refuses to participate in the process.

When looking for a practitioner, your family physician may be a good place to start. A pastor may also be a good source for locating a mental health professional in your area. It is important to call each provider to get a feel for his or her mode of practice before making an appointment. Don�t be afraid to make inquiries regarding culture, language and other issues. It is vital for a teen to be as comfortable as possible with a mental health provider in order to achieve the best progress.