Salad days can be challenging for many teenagers. One minute your child is loud and full of life, the next they’re locked in their rooms with headphones on. But not all mood swings are harmless. With India’s rising mental health concerns, experts are urging parents to pay closer attention.
Adolescents go through intense changes, emotionally and socially, Shruti Padhye, Senior Psychologist at Mpower, Aditya Birla Education Trust told Moneycontrol. “At this age a certain amount of distress is normal. Nevertheless, if it continues or worsens over a period of time, it could signal something more serious, like depression.”
According to the World Health Organization, depression affects up to 20% of adolescents globally. “In India, 7.3% of teens face serious mental health challenges, per the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences(NIMHANS) report. However, teen depression doesn't always look like adult depression.
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“Parents often miss early signs because they expect sadness,” says Padhye, “but teens may show anger, irritability, or even physical symptoms instead.” Missing these early cues can lead to dangerous consequences that may range from academic failure to substance abuse and even self-harm. Therefore, recognising what’s typical versus what’s concerning is key.
Between board exams, body image issues, and the rollercoaster of peer pressure and social media, adolescence today is no less than a pressure cooker. "Things were diff in the past. Teens today are juggling far more than we realise, academic stress, identity crises, online comparison," informs Padhye. “So yes, some moodiness is expected, but when it disrupts daily life, it's time to step in.”
Padhye shares 7 early warning signs of depression in teens
- Irritability more than sadness: unlike adults, depressed teens may not always appear sad instead, they might snap easily or become unusually angry. “Frequent emotional outburst or tear fullness shouldn’t be brushed off.” warns Padhye.
- Falling grades and school avoidance: a sudden drop in academic performance, skipping school, or lack of motivation should be paid attention to, specially if the team was previously engaged.
- Withdrawal from social life: When your once-chatty child suddenly avoids friends or skips out on family gatherings, it could indicate emotional distress.
- Changes in sleep and appetite: Sleeping too much, struggling with insomnia, or drastic eating changes can all point to underlying mood disorders.
- Loss of interest in favourite activities: If they no longer care about music, sports, or hobbies they once loved, take it seriously.
- Frequent physical complaints: Unexplained headaches, stomach aches, or constant fatigue may be expressions of emotional pain.
- Hopelessness or self-worth: Statements like “What’s the point?” or “I’m not good enough” should never be ignored.
What can parents do:
- Create space for honest discussion: Don’t dismiss their struggles. “Say something like, ‘I’ve noticed you’re not yourself lately. Want to talk?’ That can open the door,” Padhye told Moneycontrol.
- Be present, not pushy: Check in regularly without turning into a surveillance drone. Teens value privacy but need support more than they admit.
- Build healthier routines: Encourage sleep, movement, and creative outlets—things like journaling or painting can be surprisingly therapeutic.
- Remove stigma: Speak about mental health like you would physical health. “The more normal these conversations are, the more likely teens are to reach out,” adds Shruti.
- Know when to seek help: If things don’t improve in two weeks, or worsen, see a mental health professional. CBT, counselling, or in some cases, medication, can help teens find their balance again.
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