Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Depression in Adolescents
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the condition?
Depression may not be preventable. However, these steps may be helpful in preventing it:
Depression can lead to suicide. It is important to recognize and treat the condition early. Teens should be encouraged to talk to someone if they are concerned about depression. There are many people to whom they can talk, including:
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Most adolescents recover well from a single episode of depression. However, episodes are likely to recur. Adolescents with depression are at risk for further episodes of depression later in life. They are also at risk for adult personality disorders.
There is a strong connection between depression and suicide in adolescents. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people between the ages of 15 and 24.
What are the risks to others?
Depression is not contagious and poses no risk to others.