It is estimated that about one in five teens will experience issues with depression and that about 11 percent of young people will develop a depressive disorder before the age of 18, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Many will increase their issues with depression by abusing alcohol, marijuana and other drugs.
Signs of Depression
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Clinically reviewed by
Dr. Ian Wolds Psy.D.
Last reviewed on July 16, 2026
More Than a Phase
Too often, parents see the signs of depression in their teen and think that it’s just a phase brought on by hormones. They often fail to act, believing that it will simply pass on its own. If your son is struggling with depression, treatment is a recommended and effective option for recovery.
Recognizing Teen Depression Symptoms
Parents are encouraged to pay attention to the changes that their child experiences in the teen years and notice when and if the following signs of depression become an issue:
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Angry outbursts
Unable to handle criticism
Chronic physical ailments like headache, gastrointestinal issues and fatigue
Isolation from others
Feeling down more often than not
Changes in sleeping and eating patterns
Difficulty with concentration
Difficulty with decision-making
Reckless behavior
Loss of academic performance
Substance abuse
If any of the symptoms above last more than a couple of weeks, it may be time to seek professional help.
Marijuana and Depression
Teen depression – and the risk of developing the disorder – increases when that teenager uses marijuana, according to the Office of National Drug Control Policy. Current symptoms can worsen even though many teens use the drug in an attempt to make themselves feel better. Teens who abuse marijuana regularly may be more likely to:
Feel hopeless
Lose interest in their normal hobbies
Drop off academically
Find it difficult to cope with stressors
Likewise, abuse of alcohol and other drugs can have the same effect on teen depression and the experience of symptoms.
Risks of Teen Depression
There is no one specific cause for depressive disorders, but there are a number of issues that may increase your teen’s risk of developing symptoms of depression.
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These can include:
Genetic predisposition, especially if a parent or sibling is diagnosed with the disorder
Stressful events like divorcing parents, loss of a loved one, bullying, etc.
Low self-esteem
Social awkwardness
Chronic illness
Learning disabilities
Other chronic issues like an eating disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, etc.
Co-Occurring Disorders
When both a mental health disorder, like depression, and substance abuse are issues for a teenager, the result can be dangerous. Some common issues that can develop include:
Increased risk for developing schizophrenia
Symptoms of anxiety
Suicidal thoughts and/or attempts
Addiction
When drug and alcohol abuse and depression are both a significant issue for your son, it is imperative that you opt for a treatment program that offers intensive treatment for both disorders simultaneously. Because the symptoms, triggers and effects of the two are inextricably intertwined, any program that attempts to isolate one disorder for treatment will be ineffective.
Effective Treatment for Teens With Depression
There are a number of options that can be effective in the treatment of depression in teens. According to the US National Library of Medicine, these can include talk therapy and/or antidepressant medications. There are a number of options in both types of treatment, and it is important that parents take an active role in determining what will be most effective for their child.
For example, some types of talk therapy that are effective for the treatment of teen depression include family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and group therapy. In most cases, treatment will be heavily focused on therapeutic growth; medication is often reserved for the most serious cases.
Learn more about how depression treatment can help your son heal when you contact us today at Muir Wood. We’re here to help.
Muir Wood Treatment Center Reviews
Read about Muir Wood experiences from a parent who has been through it. Read these and other reviews from real parents of Muir Wood alumni. If you would like to speak to an alumni parent, contact us and we’ll arrange it.
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Haley really got to know Damian and identified several of the areas that contributed to Damian's challenges, particularly in how they are neuro-divergent. This was a huge help and something we hadn't gotten before.
CL
Jul 2026
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Our son spent 36 days at Muir Wood in 2017. We had a very positive experience. Amazing staff and very caring. The environment is perfect to take a step back and reflect about life challenges. Actually a place you would consider to spend a family summer vacation.
ED
Jul 2026
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Very professional, safe and science based approach
UB
Jul 2026
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Finally got a real diagnosis and help for our daughter
HW
Jul 2026
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I trusted you with my daughter. I do not take that lightly.
GS
Jul 2026
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The place was very welcoming and helped my daughter well.
Welcoming place that helped our daughter
Jul 2026
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Muirwood is one of the most beautiful campuses I’ve ever visited and the staff is highly compassionate and experienced. I would strongly recommend this program for anyone in need of help for their teenage son.
RM
Jul 2026
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Provided incredible support for my child
MN
Jul 2026
Accreditations
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