Teen’s Depression Needs Global Attention

Abstract

Depression is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Depression can occur in any age group which can change anyone’s life but fortunately it can be treated. Depression in teens (ages 13-17) is a serious medical illness. Teen depression is a serious mental health problem that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in activities. It affects how your teenager thinks, feels and behaves, and it can cause emotional, functional and physical problems. Although depression can occur at any time in life, symptoms may be different between teens and adults. • Globally, one in seven 10-19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder, accounting for 15%of the global burden of disease in this age group. • Depression, anxiety and behavioural disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents. • Suicide is the third leading cause of death among those aged 15–29 years old. • The consequences of failing to address adolescent mental health conditions extend to adulthood, impairing both physical and mental health and limiting opportunities to lead