Teen depression is more than just being moody or occasionally feeling down in the dumps; it’s a serious condition that disrupts your teen’s life and can lead to serious problems like substance abuse and even suicide. As many as 5 million adolescents suffer from clinical depression, but according to a 2009 study, an estimated 70 percent are undiagnosed and don’t receive any form of treatment. Adults have the ability to seek help for depression on their own, but teens rely on their parents, teachers and other adults to recognize that they’re suffering and step in to help. Don’t let your teen suffer in silence. Here’re how to tell if your teen is depressed and what you can do to help.

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Nobody knows your child like you do. We all know teenagers can behave erratically, but there is a difference between normal adolescent behavior and behavior that’s influenced by drugs or alcohol. If you suspect your teen is using drugs or alcohol, follow your instinct. Denying a problem exists will only make it worse. Even if your teen is simply experimenting with drugs, the experimentation can quickly spiral into addiction. Testing your teen for drugs will let you know what you’re up against — and let your teen know that you’re serious about their life.

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It’s not uncommon for teens to experiment with drugs or alcohol. Some teens may start experimenting with drugs or alcohol as a way to have fun, and others may start experimenting as a way to cope with underlying issues of depression or low self-esteem. Some might even consider this a rite of passage, but the reality is that you never know when experimentation will lead to abuse and addiction. Early intervention can prevent your teenager from developing chronic addictions and permanent damage that will affect your child for the rest of his life.

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