Teenage depression is an ongoing concern that’s difficult to diagnose, due to normal mood swings during this age period. But according to an article from Northwestern University, a scientist has developed the first blood test to detect a specific set of genetic markers found in teens with depression.

Currently, diagnosing depression is based on the patient’s ability to accurately describe their symptoms and the physician’s ability to interpret them.

The new test isn’t based on subjective opinions. Instead, this test is the first to reveal that it’s possible to diagnose subtypes of depression and tailor care to different types. For example, a teen with major depression and a teen with major depression combined with high anxiety would probably need different medications. All types depression shouldn’t be treated the same.

It’s estimated that rates of major depression jump from 2 to 4 percent in pre-adolescent children to 10 to 20 percent by late adolescence. Early onset depression in teens has worst prognosis than when it develops in adulthood. Untreated teens often experience higher levels of substance abuse, social maladjustment, physical illness and suicide.

If you know someone who is dealing with depression, anxiety, or another mental illness, Pasadena Villa can help. We provide full medical treatment, psychiatric therapy, medication management, life skills training, and aftercare via our safe, friendly locations in Orlando, Florida and the Tennessee Smoky Mountains. Call 877-845-5235 or contact us online for more information about our residential mental health programs.

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Mental Illnesses, Therapy by ACIdesigns