As a parent, the most difficult thing is to watch your child struggle with their mental health. You may feel helpless, powerless or frustrated by your inability to help them through this difficult period in their life. However, there are many things you can do to support your teenager and help them overcome depression.
The signs that your teen may be depressed
Depression can exhibit itself in many ways. You may notice that your teenager has become more irritable, they have trouble concentrating, sleeping, and eating. They may withdraw from friends and family. This can also include having trouble making decisions or planning, losing interest in previously enjoyed hobbies or activities, and feeling unmotivated about most things. Depression can also affect your teenagers focus and concentration levels, leading to forgetfulness.
The symptoms of a depressed teenager
To conclude that your child is suffering from depression, they will be experiencing 5 or more of these symptoms:
- Depressed mood
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Loss of interest in activities
- Increased alcohol or drug use
- Increased anger or rage
- Loss of appetite/changes in eating patterns
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Lack of focus and concentration
- Suicidal thoughts
How you can help your depressed teenager
It is common for depressed teenagers to be reluctant about talking about their feelings and what they’re going through. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. You should try to approach your teen with questions such as “How are things going?” and “What can I do to help?’. It is imperative that you be open and non-judgmental about their response. In addition to talking with your teen about how they are feeling, don’t be afraid of asking questions about mental health. It’s important for parents to acknowledge when something doesn’t seem right, so everyone can work together and find solutions for those issues.
Additionally, it is so important for parents to encourage their teenager to share his or her feelings. The adolescent years are a tumultuous time for teens who are experiencing rapid emotional changes, and it’s important that they know there is someone who will listen and support them during this difficult time. You can help your depressed teenager by encouraging him or her to talk about how he or she feels and why. Let them know that you are there for them, even if you don’t understand exactly why they are depressed. Remind them that it is okay to feel sad sometimes, especially when things aren’t going well in life. Be patient with your teen and let them know that you will always be there if they want to talk.
Reach out to friends, family, and school counselors for help
Depression can lead to serious mental and physical health problems if left untreated. One way you can help your teenager recognize the need for treatment is by encouraging them to reach out to their friends, family and school counselors. If they refuse to talk to teachers or counselors at school, consider reaching out yourself and letting them know what you see happening with your child.
Depression can be treated with counseling, medicines, support groups and more
If you feel like your teen’s depression has gotten to a stage where they need professional help, look for a trained mental health counselor. The counselor should have the knowledge and skills to help them overcome depression through regular counseling sessions. However, Your child should also feel comfortable and connect well with them. If you feel like your teen would benefit from medication, there are psychiatrists and psychologists who can help diagnose mental illnesses and prescribe the appropriate medications to help manage symptoms.There are always professionals out there who can help, you just need to encourage your teen to be open to receiving it.
Take action if you think your teen is at risk of committing suicide.
If you think your depressed teenager is at risk of committing suicide, take action immediately. Call 911 or your local emergency number and ask for help from a mental health professional.
Talk to your teen about the dangers of suicide. Tell them that suicidal thoughts are temporary and that they won’t last forever; remind them that there are things they can do to feel better now, such as talking to someone who cares about them.
If you are concerned that your teenager might be contemplating suicide, you should watch for any of these signs:
- They may have given away prized possessions without seeming to care about doing so (including pets).
- They may talk about being worthless or feeling like a burden to others; they may speak of feeling trapped.
- They may express a desire to die by saying things like “I wish I weren’t here anymore” or “I just want it all to end.”
If you are worried about your depressed teenager, visit our webpage on teenage counseling. Counseling is a proven way in helping teenagers overcome depression and other mental health disorders. We provide regular counseling sessions for teenagers in Florida who are struggling and would like somebody to discuss it with. A great way to help your teenager overcome depression is to guide them to a therapist, who is trained to help.
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