The transition from childhood to the teenage years can be a difficult time. Hormones in the body can affect a young person’s emotions and moods. As children grow they usually want to pull away from parents and develop their own personality. So, they may talk or act differently as a teenager. For example, a 15-year-old who used to have a friendly personality can turn irritable. A 16-year-old who once enjoyed spending time with her family may choose to stay in her room alone. While these changes in behavior and personality can be difficult, they are for the most part a normal part of the teenage years. But when is it not normal? When is a change in personality a sign of depression or other mental health issues? Many parents may not know the difference. A recent poll shows that many Americans do not recognize signs of depression in their preteen and teenage children.