Colic and Depression in Adolescence

Colic and depression in adolescence are two individual areas of concern. Colic maybe considered a symptom for a teen depression in certain cases when linked with other symptoms like irritation, mood swings, etc. The colicky nature of a newborn might induces depression in teenage mothers.

Colic is the process of continuous crying in a healthy new born baby with symptoms of mild irritation. The continuous crying may result due to most of the time due to uncomfortable nature and with relatively less chances of pain. The crying need not necessarily arise due to any discomfort though the baby would cry his energy out. The food and sleep patterns of your child might be proper but still he would be extremely difficult to handle and keeps crying for more than 3-4 hours in a day.

A baby who is colicky tends to create distress signs and frustrating mood for the mother. The long hours of continuous crying and broken sleep at night tends to depress the parents. In cases where the parents are teenagers, the effect tends to reflect on their mood and anger. This is also a reason for teenage depression when the parents are not enough equipped to handle a colicky baby.

The methods to deal with depression related to a baby's colic nature will ensure relaxation and thereby reducing the depression symptoms. This kind of depression does not require medication or doctor guidance in the initial stages and can be cured by different methods of relaxation. Try various modes of relaxation like music, indulging in other physical activities like swimming, etc.

Colicky babies are not ill or in pain, so understand this fact first and learn how to cope up with such a baby. Always look at different positive methods to treat the baby, keep him occupied by some games or toys or other activities that interest him. Take frequent rest when you feel you are depressed, you partner or family member can help you take care of the child at these times. Do not completely exhaust yourself, this increases the depression levels. Remember that you are not in any way responsible for your baby's crying. It is a normal symptom that affects almost 2 out of 10 babies. In case you feel bad or guilty, talk to a family member about these symptoms. In case of prolonged or continuous depression consult your healthcare physician and discuss about the depression.