Major Depressive Disorder in Adolescents: a General Overview

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mood disorder characterized by persistent depressive moods, irritability, and helplessness feelings, which could negatively influence one’s quality of life. Current research often concludes MDD in adolescents into MDD in general, whereas in reality, abundant differences exist between MDD in adolescents and MDD in adults. This article is an overview of major depressive disorder in adolescents incorporating its symptoms, future impacts, risk factors (academic pressure, attachment style, and peer relationships), and treatments. Although MDD in adolescents shares many similar symptoms as adults, it leads to long-lasting robust negative outcomes in adulthood, both physically and mentally. High academic pressure and insecure attachment style are both associated with the development of depressive symptoms. However, peer relationships have a much-complicated influence on depression. Positive interactions between peers and being regarded as belonging to a high-status group could prevent adolescents from developing depressive feelings. Surprisingly, close friendships could both bring positive and negative influences on depression, depending on the situation. This paper emphasizes the symptoms, importance, affecting factors, and current treatments of MDD in adolescence, which further reveals that treatments for MDD in adolescents still need more consideration and studies to improve effectiveness and avoid harm.