Experienced depression psychologists in Melbourne City helping struggling adolescents lead happier lives

At Reflection Psychology Group, helping teenagers suffering from depression is a core part of our psychologists’ daily work in Melbourne CBD.

Depression is not uncommon. In fact about one in five people will feel its touch to some degree during their life. But it can have a debilitating effect if left untreated, stripping away happiness and even leading to youth suicide. We believe that any life lost to suicide is one life too many.

As experienced depression psychologists in Melbourne City and across the city, we follow new research on adolescent mental health issues closely. A report in The Conversation by Jean Twenge, a Professor of  Psychology at San Diego State University, caught our eye.

Her report focused on research she and colleagues carried out on the increase in depression and suicide among US adolescents and links to new media screen time.

The report revealed:

• There was a 33 per cent jump in the number of teens feeling joyless and useless – which are common feelings for people with depression – between 2010 and 2015;
• Teen suicide attempts across the nation surged by 23 per cent in the same time frame;
• And there was a 31 per cent leap in the number of adolescents, aged 13 to 18 years, who took their own lives over the same period.

The researchers also found a significant jump in smartphone ownership during the five year period and explored potential links between the technology’s popularity and mental health issues. The report makes fascinating reading, and looks at issues including duration of screen time, a reduction in in-person social interaction and lack of sleep.

Professor Twenge ends her piece in The Conversation by urging that it is not too early to think about putting screen time limits on adolescents, following it up with “let’s hope it’s not too late.”

At Reflection Psychology Group, we know many triggers can contribute to depression including genetic history, bullying, trauma, family issues and relationship breakdown.

Our depression psychologists in Melbourne City use evidence-based approaches when treating adolescents with depression, working with them to achieve a happier life.

If you are suffering from depression, take that first step. Contact Reflection Psychology Group to book an appointment with a member of our caring team.

• For help, advice and support you can also call: Kids Helpline, 1800 551 800; beyondblue on 1300 22 46 36; Lifeline, 13 11 14; the Suicide Call Back Service, 1300 659 467; or MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978.