Lower Reward Response Indicates First Onset of Depression

Teen depression is a serious concern affecting many families. Research now sheds light on a fascinating link. Lower neural response to rewards could indicate the first onset of depression in teens. Let’s break this down in simple terms.

Researchers from the University of Calgary studied 145 teens with a family history of depression or anxiety, which already puts them at higher risk. Over 18 months, the researchers tracked whether these teens developed depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.

During the study, the teens played a game while their brain activity was monitored using EEG. The game rewarded them for winning, but some teens showed less satisfaction or pleasure in response to these rewards—a reaction known as “blunted reward positivity.” Teens with this blunted reward response were more likely to experience their first episode of depression. Interestingly, this pattern wasn’t linked to anxiety or suicidal thoughts, suggesting it’s a unique marker for depression.

Why does this matter?

This research points to the potential of using simple, low-cost tools like EEG to identify teens at risk for depression early on—even before symptoms appear. The earlier we can understand what’s happening in the brain, the better we can support teens and potentially prevent depression from taking hold.

Over 50% of kids who have a first episode will experience a second. Among those who have had 2 episodes, 80% will go on to have a third. So, prevention is key.

If you’re a parent or caregiver, this doesn’t mean you need to analyze your teen’s every reaction to rewards. But it’s a reminder to stay tuned in to their emotions and seek help if you notice signs of sadness or withdrawal.

If you believe depression has already taken hold of your child, the best thing you can do for them now is provide emotional support. If it feels too much for you to handle, call a professional.

At Hope Mental Health, we can provide the support you need. Contact us today.

Author

Satu H. Woodland, PMHCNS-BC, APRN Satu Woodland is owner and clinician of Hope Mental Health, an integrative mental health practice located at Bown Crossing in Boise, Idaho. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.  Ms. Woodland with her background in nursing, prefers a holistic and integrative approach to mental health care that addresses the mind and body together. While Ms. Woodland provides medication management services in all her patients, she believes in long-lasting solutions that include a number of psychotherapies, namely cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention therapy, attention to lifestyle, evidenced based alternative psychiatric care and spirituality. If you’d like to gain control over your mental health issues, call Hope Mental Health at 208-918-0958, or use the online scheduling tool to set up an initial consultation.