What behavior strongly indicates that a teenager is experiencing clinical depression?

The presence of consistent behaviors associated with depression for more than two weeks is a strong indication that a teenager may be experiencing clinical depression. This timeframe is significant because clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, typically requires symptoms to persist for at least two weeks, affecting daily functioning and overall quality of life.

During this period, a teenager may exhibit symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, changes in sleep patterns or appetite, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms are more than just reactions to temporary situations; they signify a deeper, ongoing struggle that can impact various aspects of a teen's life, including academic performance, social interactions, and emotional well-being.

In contrast, temporary feelings of sadness after a breakup, occasional irritability, or expressing dissatisfaction with life once in a while do not meet the duration or severity criteria for clinical depression. These experiences can be part of normal emotional responses to life's challenges and do not necessarily indicate a mental health disorder.