Depression / Question
Published: July 19, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am now 18 years old but have been suffering symptoms of depression for 4 years now. I was wondering how much of a difference a 14 year old that is abusing illegal drugs has on inducing major depressive disorder.
Signed: Abusing Illegal Drugs Leads To Depression?
Dear Abusing Illegal Drugs Leads To Depression?,
TeenHealthFX is concerned for you and hopes that you are working with a psychologist or therapist to help you work through your depression. As you probably know, depression is not something you can work through on your own.
Symptoms of depression can manifest for many reasons. Depression can be caused by chemical imbalances, genetic predisposition, certain medications or medical conditions such as hypothyroidism. Sudden life changes, stresses and events such as grieving, having a serious medical condition or substance abuse may induce depression in some individuals.
It is difficult to say exactly if abusing illegal drugs as a 14 year old caused depressive symptoms, however, it is known that abusing illegal drugs and substances can trigger depression. While abusing illegal drugs an individual may falter in their obligations to work, school and others who are close to them. Often an individual may place themselves in dangerous positions or shut out those close to them as they let the drug become their sole focus. Trying to end such a dependency is difficult and requires family support and counseling. Each individual is unique and the severity of depression depends on the person's personality, support system and nature of drug use.
TeenHealthFX recommends that you contact a professional like a counselor or psychiatrist if you are not currently in treatment with one. Talk to your parents about what has been going on with you and ask for their help in finding a professional. You can ask your doctor for a referral or if you live in northern New Jersey you can call the ACCESS Center at Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888.247.1400. Outside of this area, you can log onto SAMSHA's website for referrals in your area.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Crash risk is particularly high during the first year that teenagers are eligible to drive.
