Symptoms of Depression in Teens
How to Know When Your Teen May Need Support
Adolescence is a time of incredible growth, and not just the kind you can see. Internally, teens are navigating new thoughts, emotions, and pressures as they begin shaping their identity and seeking independence. It's a lot. Add in school demands, social stress, changing bodies, and the constant hum of future planning, and it’s no wonder teens can sometimes feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even hopeless.
As a parent, it can be confusing to know what’s “normal” teen behavior versus what may be symptoms of depression in teens. And when all you get is the classic “I’m fine,” it’s hard to tell what’s really going on under the surface.
Here’s the truth: teens and depression are more closely linked than we often realize. But your support, and knowing when to seek help, can make all the difference.
Teenage Depression: Understanding the Scope
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 5 million teens in the U.S. (ages 12–17) have experienced at least one major depressive episode. That’s about 20% of teenagers. And yet, many parents are still unsure what teenage depression looks like, or how to support their child through it.
While teens may naturally isolate, sleep more, or have shifting interests as they grow, the key is to look for changes that go beyond the usual ups and downs. Counseling for teens can be incredibly effective, especially when depression symptoms are caught early.
Let’s explore some of the common signs of depression in teens.
Symptoms of Depression in Teens
If you’ve been wondering whether your teen might be struggling with depression, here are some symptoms to keep an eye on. One symptom alone might not mean depression, but if you notice several lasting more than a week or two, it’s a good idea to seek support from a therapist for teenage depression.
1. Low Mood & low Energy
Has your teen seemed down or more irritable than usual? A consistent change in mood, feeling hopeless, empty, or unusually angry can be a sign that something deeper is going on. Yes you read that right irritability can be a sign of depression. Does your teen seem drained all the time, even after sleeping? Ongoing fatigue is a common sign of depression in teens.
2. Loss of Interest in Activities
Is your teen pulling away from things they used to love? If your once-social teen is avoiding friends, missing sports practices, or losing interest in hobbies, this could signal depression.
3. Changes in Sleep Patterns
Yes, teens love to sleep and stay up all night. But sleeping all day, struggling to fall asleep, or suddenly going to bed much earlier than usual may point to something more than just typical teen behavior.
4. Changes in Appetite
Eating significantly more or less than usual can be a sign of depression. If your teen is skipping meals, overeating, or suddenly uninterested in food, it may be worth checking in.
5. Difficulty Concentrating
Teens with depression often struggle with focus. If your child seems foggy, forgetful, or unable to stay on task, even in areas they used to excel, it could be more than distraction.
6. Expressions of Worthlessness or Guilt
Listen for comments like “I’m not good at anything,” “No one likes me,” or “I always mess up.” These thoughts can be red flags, especially when paired with other symptoms.
If your gut says something is off, trust it. You know your child best. When in doubt, reach out. A therapist trained in counseling teenage depression can help you sort through what’s typical, and if your teen might benefit from extra support.
Counseling for Teens in St. Louis
At Bud to Bloom Play Therapy in St. Louis, we specialize in working with teens who are experiencing depression, anxiety, or just feeling stuck. We know teens need a space where they feel respected, not talked down to. A space where they don’t have to perform or explain every little thing. A space where they can just be.
Our teen therapists use activity-based and creative approaches, art, sand, music, games, and metaphor to engage teens in a way that feels natural and non-threatening. We meet them where they are. Whether your teen is quiet, guarded, sarcastic, or silly, they’ll be welcomed just as they are. No pressure. No judgment.
We believe that connection is the foundation for healing. That’s why our first goal is always to build trust and safety, without rushing into “fixing” or deep emotional conversations before a teen is ready.
When to Seek Counseling for Teens
Still wondering if therapy is the right step? Here are a few questions to help you decide:
Has your teen’s mood or behavior changed significantly?
Are they isolating or withdrawing from family and friends?
Have their sleep or eating patterns shifted?
Do they seem more irritable, overwhelmed, or checked out?
Are they talking about feeling hopeless, stuck, or like nothing matters?
Do you feel unsure, worried, or stuck yourself as a parent?
If you answered yes to any of these, it might be time to reach out.
Looking for a Teen Therapist in St. Louis?
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Our team at Bud to Bloom includes therapists who specialize in supporting teens with depression, anxiety, identity exploration, and more. We’ll walk alongside your teen—and your family—with empathy, creativity, and care.
We believe in your teen’s resilience. And we believe in your relationship with them.
Let’s help your teen feel like themselves again—and help you feel more confident in supporting them.
Ready to get started?
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or explore openings with a therapist who’s a great fit for your teen.
Teen depression is real, and common, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to define your child’s story. Reaching out for help isn’t a sign of failure. It’s a sign of love, strength, and hope.
At Bud to Bloom, we’re here for the hard stuff. Because every teen deserves a space to feel seen, supported, and safe.