Teen depression 'caused by fluctuating hormones'

A new US study has suggested that teenagers who sleep for longer are less likely to fall into a deep depression.

The report, which was published by Columbia University Medical Center, found that adolescents whose parents set their bedtimes earlier were far less likely to suffer from the condition and its extremes.

However, one expert has pointed out that there may be other major factors in the development of teen depression as well as sleep.

Ann McCracken, chair of stress prevention organisation ISMA UK, said that fluctuating hormones play a key role in whether adolescents become depressed or not.

She told those with affordable health insurance that sleep is an excellent way of re-energising and helping to stave off mood swings which can be a precursor to depression, but she noted that the change is more to do with chemical imbalances in the body.

"Teenagers also have fluctuating hormones which can change their behaviour and mood which, if combined with low self-esteem, may lead to depression," the expert said.

The US study found that teens who generally went to bed after midnight were a quarter more likely to suffer from depression and Ms McCracken agreed that having an early night is important, but she also stressed how vital it is to follow a good diet which provides essential nutrients and keep the mind and body in good shape.

She told those with a healthcare plan: "Eating nourishing and energising food, taking regular exercise, getting regular, deep sleep and learning to value themselves is all part of growing up and setting good patterns for life."

Posted by Stephen Tate

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