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| Depression Signs and Advice | The changes may take in alterations in the number or sensitivity (how well they work) of little structures (receptors) on the surface of nerve cells that receive chemical messages that make the brain work. Above all, receptors for three chemicals: 1) 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, also known as serotonin), 2) noradrenaline, and 3) dopamine.
- 5-HT is involved in maintaining normal patterns of appetite, sleep and sexual activity: abnormalities in 5-HT pathways might lead to the disturbance of sleep, increased anxiety and irritability and loss of sexual interest.
- Noradrenaline helps to regulate mood and energy levels, and possibly has a role in social interactions: changes in noradrenaline may lead to tiredness, loss of enthusiasm and social withdrawal.
- Dopamine is thought to have a role in gaining pleasure, and changes here could lead to the sense of being unable to get enjoyment from usually pleasurable activities. Anomalies in dopamine may be especially important in patients with ‘manic’ depression.
Depression Warning Signs
Common warning signs/symptoms of teenage depression
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits (eating and sleeping too much or too little)
• Significant change in weight (loss or gain)
• Often misses school and/or shows bad school performance
• Reclusive, withdrawing from friends or family members
• Quick to show anger/rage
• General restlessness or anxiety
• Overreacts to criticism, even constructive
• Seems very self conscious, guilty
• Unusual problems with authority
• No longer partakes in or enjoys activities and events they once loved
• Indecision, lack of concentration, or forgetfulness
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Frequent health complaints despite being healthy
• Lack of motivation and enthusiasm for every day life
• Drug/alcohol abuse
• Mentions or thoughts of suicide
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