259: Why Is My Teen So Snarky?

This episode of Ask Lisa addresses the issue of snarkiness in teenagers, particularly concerning when it may indicate underlying depression. Dr. Lisa Damour emphasizes that while some snark is typical teen behavior, pervasive irritability and negativity towards nearly everyone can be a sign of depression, which often presents differently in adolescents than in adults. She advises parents to first address basics like sleep and phone usage, as sleep deprivation can mimic depression. Dr. Damour also stresses the importance of considering the impact of a teen's behavior on younger siblings and the family dynamic. If lifestyle adjustments don't improve the teen's mood, she recommends a psychiatric consultation to explore potential medication, highlighting the importance of early intervention to keep the teen on a positive trajectory.