Dr. Ana Aznar
Question:
Can you have depression without being sad? My son keeps saying he's depressed but doesn't act sad. He's 16 so maybe it's more of a trend than anything
Dr. Ana’s Answer:
Teenagers get depressed. It is not a trend. Your son could be depressed without acting sad. Depression looks different for everyone. Some people feel empty or worthless rather than sad.
Depression symptoms are usually sadness or a low mood that does not go away, being irritable or grumpy all the time, feeling tired a lot of the time, and not being interested in things they used to enjoy. Teenagers going through depression also may have trouble sleeping or may sleep more than usual, they may have trouble concentrating, eat less than usual or eat more than usual, spend less time with their friends and family, have thoughts about suicide or self-harm, or actually self-harm.
It is important that you take your son seriously. Try to find out what is troubling him. If he does not want to talk to you, encourage him to talk to other people in her life. I also encourage you to get help early from your doctor or a mental health specialist with expertise in teen mood disorders. The longer it goes on, the more chances that it may become a long-term problem.
I hope this information helps. I wish you and your son all the very best.
Love,
Ana
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