Adolescent depression is a mood disorder characterized by intense negative feelings and emotions. Depression goes beyond temporary feelings of sadness; it is a mental disorder that affects the way a person's mood is controlled by their brain. It is a serious illness that affects thoughts, feelings, behavior, mood and physical health. These feelings can negatively impact a teen's life, leading to social, academic/career, personal, and family difficulties. Depression is a real disorder that affects about one percent of adolescents aged 18, according to the National Comorbidity Survey-Adolescent Supplement (NCS-A). (March, J. 2004) Adolescents who suffer from depression tend to have similar symptoms to adults who suffer from depression, but there are some distinct differences between the two. Adolescents who suffer from depression may feel their emotions more intensely and with greater impulsivity than adults. . Teenagers may also experience irritability instead of sadness, making them more prone to unexplained meltdowns. Unexplained pain can occur as well as extreme sensitivity to criticism. Teenage depression is relatively common among children and adolescents. Children and adolescents represent five percent of the general population suffering from depression. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Before puberty, adolescents are just as likely to develop depression. But by age 15, girls are almost twice as likely to develop depression as boys. (Cyranowski, JM. 2000) The risk of developing depression increases as the adolescent ages. Because normal behaviors vary from teenager to teenager, it can be somewhat difficult to tell whether a teenager is suffering from depression or is simply... middle of paper ... ...centives, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). CBT focuses on changing the negative outlook on life, moving from the cup half full instead of the cup half empty. IPT focuses on the patient's self-image and relationships with peers and family. Antidepressant treatment is another treatment option for adolescents with depression, but this treatment option also carries risks and side effects. Fluoxetine (Prozac) is the only antidepressant specifically approved by the FDA for the treatment of depression in children ages 8 and older. Adolescents should be closely monitored, especially during the first weeks of treatment. Other activities that can help reduce the impact of depression include: exercising, eating healthily on a daily basis, and participating in social activities while maintaining good sleep and hygiene. (TADS, 2007)