Symptoms of SAD
To determine whether a teen is suffering from SAD, healthcare or mental health professionals typically administer a physical exam and a psychological evaluation. In addition, lab tests may also be helpful in order to discover whether a thyroid issue or other medical problem may be a contributing factor.
Symptoms of teen SAD are similar to the symptoms of other types of depression:
- Feelings of sadness most of the day, every day
- A sense of hopelessness
- Low energy
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
- Sleeping problems (too much or too little)
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sluggishness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Frequent thoughts of death or suicide.
