Signs of depression in teenagers: what parents should notice
Signs parents often notice
- Irritability or anger that seems out of proportion.
- Losing interest in friends, hobbies or things they used to love.
- Sleeping much more or much less; constant tiredness.
- Changes in appetite or weight.
- Falling concentration or grades, or avoiding school.
- Harsh self-criticism: "I'm useless", "everyone hates me".
- Talk of hopelessness, self-harm or not wanting to be here.
Moodiness or depression?
Ordinary teenage moods come and go, and there are still good days. Depression tends to stick, spreads into several areas of life and makes everyday things feel hard. Trust your sense that something has changed.
What to do
Choose a calm moment and say what you've noticed with care, not blame. Listen more than you advise. Talk to your family doctor or paediatrician, and let the school know so they can support too. Depression is treatable, and early support makes a real difference.
For parents
NOTICE parent workshop
Two live 2-hour online sessions (4 hours total, €79.00 EUR) that help parents recognise early signs and practise the conversations that keep teenagers talking.
Book the NOTICE workshop