Teen Depression: More Than Moodiness

Parents aren’t the only ones who frequently mistake teen depression symptoms for moodiness.

80s pop icon Rick Springfield attributed his depression to “artistic sensitivity“.  He even tried to rationalize a failed suicide attempt at the age of 17 as “just being a moody guy.”

As an adult, he found success as a singer and actor and still suffered another major depressive episode.  This isn't surprising, because experiencing untreated depressive episodes during the teen years multiplies the risk for adult depression.  During the first adult recurrence, he realized that his illness that could no longer be ignored or rationalized.

Springfield tells all in his new book Late, Late At Night.  He hopes to speak directly to teens who are suffering, telling them to “give themselves a year” and to reach out to get the help they deserve.  He promises that “things will change, they will get better.”

There’s always hope, with or without Jessie’s Girl.