Which option best captures the early signs of depression or anxiety in adolescents?

Which option best captures the early signs of depression or anxiety in adolescents?

• A. Irritability or moodiness
• B. Withdrawal from friends and activities
• C. Irritability or moodiness, withdrawal from friends and activities, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite or energy, and academic decline
• D. Sleep disturbances only

Answer: (C)

Early signs of depression or anxiety in adolescents show up across emotional, behavioral, and physical changes rather than a single symptom. Teens may be irritable or moodier, which is a common emotional signal. They might withdraw from friends and activities they used to enjoy, signaling a shift in social engagement. Sleep disturbances, such as trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, are frequent physical signs, and changes in appetite or energy levels often accompany mood concerns. A decline in academic performance can result from difficulty concentrating, fatigue, or reduced motivation. When these signs occur together and persist, they point toward depression or anxiety rather than normal teenage variability. The option that includes all these elements best captures the early signs.

Early signs of depression or anxiety in adolescents show up across emotional, behavioral, and physical changes rather than a single symptom. Teens may be irritable or moodier, which is a common emotional signal. They might withdraw from friends and activities they used to enjoy, signaling a shift in social engagement. Sleep disturbances, such as trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, are frequent physical signs, and changes in appetite or energy levels often accompany mood concerns. A decline in academic performance can result from difficulty concentrating, fatigue, or reduced motivation. When these signs occur together and persist, they point toward depression or anxiety rather than normal teenage variability. The option that includes all these elements best captures the early signs.