Teen depression is increasing in the United States, affecting both young people and the communities around them. About 13% of adolescents aged 12 and older reported feeling depressed between 2021 and 2023, up from previous years (Brody & Hughes, 2025). Girls and teens from lower-income families are especially affected, showing how stress at home, school, and in society can take a toll.
For many teens, depression doesn’t always look the same. It might show up as sadness, getting frustrated and angry more easily, feeling like nothing really matters anymore, or losing interest in the hobbies and activities that they used to enjoy.
Many things can cause teen depression, such as family problems, money issues, lack of sleep, too much social media, or feeling lonely. Surveys say around 8% of teens have been diagnosed with depression, and up to 40% say they have felt sad or hopeless for a long time during the past year. Events like school shootings also add fear and stress, making things even harder for teens.
Experts say teen depression comes from both personal and bigger social problems. Dr. Jane Smith, a child psychologist, explains, “Teen depression is a mirror of society. When many young people struggle, it shows bigger problems in our communities.”
Solving this problem means helping teens individually and improving society. Teens need access to counselling, supportive families, and healthy routines. Communities can provide safer schools, mental health programs, and reduce inequality. Encouraging outdoor activities, hobbies, talking about feelings, and limiting screen time can also help teens cope.
Rising teen depression, combined with societal stress like school shootings, is a sign that our social systems are under strain. Taking action now can help teens and make communities stronger.
References:
Brody, D. J., & Hughes, J. P. (2025, April). Depression prevalence in adolescents and adults: United States, August 2021 August 2023 (NCHS Data Brief No. 527). National Center for Health Statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db527.pdf
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Mental health conditions & care: Youth depression data. https://www.cdc.gov/children-mental-health/data-research/index.html
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