Many Irish Teens Unable To Identify Depression - Research

Many Irish teenagers are unable to identify signs of depression or suicidal thoughts, according to new research conducted by psychologists at Trinity College Dublin.

The research, which has been published in the July edition of the Journal of Adolescent Research, has found that only half of participants in the study correctly identified depression in hypothetical case studies and only 10% correctly identified suicide ideation.

The study found that participants were unable to identify appropriate treatment for peers experiencing depression and a sizable minority of young people did not recognise the importance of adult help for a friend experiencing emotional distress. One third of all participants said they would only involve their peer-group in the provision of help for a depressed friend.

Overall, the findings of the study, which involved 187 adolescents aged between 15 and 19, indicates that while Irish adolescents with depression may prefer support from friends instead of seeking support from a professional, it is unlikely that their friends will be able to recognise their symptoms. It is also unlikely that their friends will identify the importance of engaging an adult's support. Girls were more likely than boys to name multiple ways in which they would help a depressed friend.

(CD/LM)