Teenage depression goes beyond moodiness. It’s a serious health problem that impacts every aspect of a teen’s life. Fortunately, it’s treatable and parents can help.

The teenage years are notoriously turbulent. Adolescents are establishing their own identities, doing more things independently, trying out different roles, taking more risks socially and possibly experimenting with drugs and alcohol.

If you’re unsure if your child is depressed or just “being a teenager”, consider how long the symptoms have been going on, how severe they are and how different your child is acting from his or her usual self.

Signs of teen depression

    • Sadness or hopelessness
    • Irritability, anger, or hostility
    • Tearfulness or frequent crying
    • Withdrawal from friends and family
    • Loss of interest in activities
    • Poor school performance
    • Changes in eating and sleeping habits
    • Restlessness and agitation
    • Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
    • Lack of enthusiasm and motivation
    • Fatigue or lack of energy
    • Difficulty concentrating
    • Unexplained aches and pains
    • Thoughts of death or suicide.

 

Support your teen

    • Physical and mental health are intimately connected. Depression is exacerbated by inactivity, inadequate sleep and poor nutrition. Unfortunately, teens are known for their unhealthy habits: staying up late, eating junk food and spending untold hours on their phones and devices. But as a parent, you can combat these behaviours by establishing a healthy, supportive home environment.
    • Set aside quality time each day to talk face to face with your teen. Don’t give up if he or she shuts you out at first. Talking about depression can be very tough for teens. Even if they want to, they may have a hard time expressing what they’re feeling. Be respectful of your child’s comfort level while still emphasising your concern and willingness to listen.
    • Focus on listening, not lecturing. Avoid asking a lot of questions (teenagers don’t like to feel patronized or crowded), but make it clear that you’re ready and willing to provide whatever support they need. Simply acknowledging the pain and sadness they’re experiencing can go a long way in making them feel understood and supported. Ask about what they’re doing and how they’re feeling, perhaps when the two of you are driving in a car or preparing dinner.
    • Do what you can to keep your teen connected to others. Encourage teens to go out with friends or invite friends over. Participate in activities that involve other families.
    • Set limits on screen time. Teens often go online to escape their problems, but excessive computer use only increases their isolation, making them more depressed.

 

Take a stance

If your teen’s depression seems severe, the teen appears to have a serious substance abuse problem or attempted suicide, insist that your child see a mental health professional and make the appointment even if your child is extremely angry or upset with you for seeking help.

 

Sources

www.helpguide.org
www.livescience.com