Depression: Using Technology for Prevention & Intervention

iKeepSafe supports the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) mission to prevent depression among young people through reducing factors that increase risk, and increasing factors that promote resilience. We endorse their commitment to accomplish prevention through “all levels of  influence: individual, relationship, community, and societal” [1]. We hope to empower parents, educators, and mentors to use technology as a tool for identifying risk and promoting resilience within their own communities.

As many as 5% of children and adolescents suffer from clinical depression, or major depressive disorder [2]. Depression can be treated with medication and counseling. However, if depression is left untreated, it can lead to self-destructive behaviors such as drug/alcohol abuse, self-harm, or suicide [3]. It’s important for parents and mentors to know the risk factors and warning signs for depression because children may not recognize they need help.

If parents and mentors involved with young people are aware of the risk factors and warning signs, connected technology can reinforce efforts to prevent and detect adolescent depression.

Risk Factors: Depression
The Mayo Clinic and the U.S. Surgeon General list the following as common risk factors for depression among adolescents and children:

• Family history of depression.
• Being female. [2]
• Personality traits, such as low self-esteem and being overly dependent, self-critical or pessimistic.

• Traumatic experiences as a child.
• Biological relatives with a history of alcoholism.
• Family members who have committed suicide.
• Experiencing stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one.
• Having few friends or other personal relationships.
• Having a serious illness. [4]

Warning Signs: Depression
While risk factors indicate a possibility for depression, if a young person is already dealing with depression, they may exhibit the following warning signs:

• Irritability (which may lead to aggression).
• Sadness.
• Decreased interest in activities they normally enjoy.
• Critical of themselves and others.
• Feeling unloved by parents/family.
• Feelings of hopelessness.
• Indecisiveness.
• Problems concentrating.
• Irregular sleep patterns.
• Neglected hygiene/appearance
• Symptoms of anxiety (i.e. fear of separation, reluctance to meet people).
• Frequent complaints of headaches or stomachaches. [2]

Young people often manifest warning signs for depression online. A 13-year old girl
with depression may reveal uncharacteristic and repeated irritability in Facebook posts and comments. Or, a 16-year old girl might reveal feelings of hopelessness and irregular sleep patterns on her blog. A 17-year old boy might confide via YouTube video feelings of alienation or hopelessness.

Parents and mentors who are connected both offline and online with young people should carefully watch for warning signs. When witnessed, these warning signs should be taken very seriously to help young people get the support they need.

Upstander Action

Reduce Risk Factors
Identify young people who may be at risk for depression based on family history, family tragedy (especially suicide), extended illness, etc. Encourage these young people to work through emotions in ways which promote healthy physical, emotional and mental health.

Whenever possible, use technology and offline interactions to encourage young people to think positively about themselves. Encourage young people to engage in activities which help build self-confidence and autonomy.

Increase Factors for Prevention
Ensure that young people have healthy outlets for emotions and experiences.  Promote positive mental health whenever possible both on and offline.  Educate young people on the signs and symptoms of depression, so they know when to ask for help.

If you suspect a young person is dealing with untreated depression—intervene. Report the concern to the appropriate stakeholder (i.e., parent, school nurse, school counselor).

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2010, August 24). Suicide: Prevention Strategies. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/ViolencePrevention/suicide/prevention.html
2. Office of the Surgeon General. (n.d.). Depression and Suicide in Children and Adolescents. In Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General (chapter 3). Retrieved from  http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/library/mentalhealth/chapter3/sec5.html
3. Barston, S., Smith, M. (2010, November). Teen Depression: a Guide for Parents and Teachers. Retrieved from http://www.helpguide.org/mental/depression_teen.htm
4. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2011, February 11). Depression (Major Depression): Risk Factors. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/depression/DS00175/DSECTION=risk-factors