Normal Teenage Moodiness Or Depression?
- Sep 20, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 17, 2025
Written by: Kristina Saelee, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
When our children enter adolescence and we begin to notice changes in their attitude, mood or behavior it can be difficult to figure out, “is this just normal teenage moodiness or is my teen struggling with depression?” We’re told it’s normal for our teen’s to get an attitude or shut themselves in their room but when do these behaviors mean more is going on? After years of playing soccer they no longer want to participate, they start skipping classes and you find a vape in their bag. Is this a normal teenage phase or should you be concerned?
Differentiating between normal teenage moodiness and signs of depression can be challenging for parents. Here are some factors to consider:
1. Duration and intensity: While moodiness is common in teenagers, depressive symptoms are persistent and more intense. Look for signs of prolonged sadness, irritability, or a lack of interest in activities that lasts for weeks or months. 2. Functional impairment: If your child's daily functioning is significantly affected, it may indicate depression rather than normal moodiness. Notice if their academic performance, relationships, and self-care routines are being impacted. 3. Physical symptoms: Depression can cause physical symptoms such as changes in appetite, weight loss or gain, sleep disturbances, and frequent complaints of unexplained aches and pains. These physical manifestations may be less common in normal moodiness. 4. Social withdrawal: While teenagers may occasionally withdraw from social activities, prolonged isolation and a lack of interest in spending time with friends and family may indicate depression. 5. Changes in academic performance: Keep an eye out for significant drops in grades, attendance issues, lack of concentration, or a noticeable decline in motivation towards schoolwork. These can be indicators of depressive symptoms. 6. Lack of energy and fatigue: While teenagers may have their moments of low energy, persistent feelings of fatigue, lethargy, and a general lack of motivation could be signs of depression. 7. Irrational guilt or self-blame: If your teenager is excessively blaming themselves, feeling worthless or guilty over minor issues or events, it may be indicative of depressive thoughts and emotions. 8. Changes in appetite and weight: Notice any drastic changes in eating habits, such as sudden weight loss or gain, or a lack of interest in food. These changes can be related to depression or other underlying emotional issues. 9. Substance abuse: Teenagers may turn to substances such as drugs or alcohol to cope with their emotions. If you notice signs of substance abuse along with persistent moodiness, it's important to address the issue promptly.
10. Thoughts of self-harm or suicide: Any mention or indication of self-harm or suicidal ideation should be taken very seriously. These thoughts are not normal and require immediate professional help. It's important to trust your instincts as a parent. If you suspect that your child's moodiness is more than just a typical teenage phase, consult with a mental health professional who can provide an accurate diagnosis and guide you in supporting your child's emotional well-being.
Be careful not to brush off such behavior as “just normal teenage anst”. If your teen is irritable, fatigued, losing weight, if they’re losing interest in activities once enjoyed, their grades are slipping and their relationships are strained or they’re engaging in risky behaviors, it’s time to pay attention and get needed support.
The teenage years don’t have to be a roller coaster ride. Parent’s can make a huge difference in best supporting their teen’s emotional well-being and nurturing a connected relationship where your teen feels safe to share how they’re feeling and experiencing life.
If you’re teen is struggling with Depression you’re going to need support for yourself too, in order to be your best self to show up day in and day out. Dealing with Depression take a community of support.
For more information on how to best support your teen book a discovery call here.
Kristina Saelee, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Kristina Saelee is a Parent Coach specializing in coaching parents raising teens who are struggling with Depression. Her own daughter struggled with Depression as a teen and Kristina is passionate about helping parents learn how to best support their teens. She developed her 5 Steps to emPOWERed Parenting program based on the tools she had learned to best support her daughter. Kristina is certified in Positive Discipline, Collaborative Problem-Solving, Brain-Health Coaching and as a Life Coach. She is also a youth therapist trained in DBT and Trauma-Informed CBT. She has helped many families reach healing and wholeness.
