Watching your teenager struggle with depression can be heartbreaking for any parent. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 5 million adolescents ages 12 to 17 in the United States had at least one major depressive episode as of 2021.
As a parent, you want to do everything you can to help your child. Here are seven tips for supporting your teen through depression:
1. Educate yourself about teen depression. Learn the signs and symptoms so you can identify them early and get your teen the help they need. Common symptoms include persistent sadness, irritability, loss of interest in activities, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and thoughts of death or suicide.
2. Listen without judgment. Create an open and supportive environment where your teen feels comfortable opening up to you. Don’t criticize their feelings or minimize their struggles. When you take the time to just listen and be present, it can make a big difference.
3. Encourage professional help. A combination of medication and therapy is often very effective in treating teen depression. Work with your teen to find a mental health professional they connect with and support them in following treatment recommendations.
4. Monitor their safety. Since depression can increase suicide risk, keep an eye out for any warning signs and take them very seriously. Secure any firearms or medications in your home.
5. Help them maintain routines. Depressive episodes can disrupt healthy habits like sleeping, eating, and exercise. Try to keep some structure and normalcy even on bad days.
6. Offer emotional support. Give plenty of love, understanding, and encouragement. Remind your teen that you are there for them and that their life and feelings do matter.
7. Take care of yourself too. Managing your own stress and getting support will allow you to be fully present for your teen. Don’t hesitate to reach out to family, friends, or your own therapist.
Depression can make the teenage years especially painful, but with your help and compassion, this too shall pass. Stay patient, loving, and proactive, and trust that happier days lie ahead. Your support makes all the difference in your teen’s recovery.
Hammond Psychology and Associates is the go-to resource for residents seeking psychological evaluations from a licensed psychologist in the Tampa Bay area. Click here to learn more about our Psychological Testing services in our Brandon location.