FollowHow to Handle Teen Depression
Teenage depression is more than just being in a bad mood. It is a problem that affects all aspects of your teen’s life. It can lead to more serious things such as drug and alcohol abuse, violence, pregnancy and suicide. However, as a parent, there are some ways you can help your teenager handle their depression.
Understanding Depression– An occasional bad mood or acting out in teens is not the same as depression. Teenage years are tough years but most teens can handle everything that is thrown at them such as school, sports and family life. However, when your teen experiences overwhelming anger, sadness or despair, this is when things become a problem.
Understanding the Signs and Symptoms– With puberty onset, trying to fit in with others and figuring out who they are, teenagers are under a great deal of pressure. Most parents have a difficult time telling the difference between regular moodiness and depression. However, there are some signs to look out for that may be an indication your teen is dealing with depression. These signs include sadness or hopelessness, anger, hostility, irritability, frequent crying, withdrawal from family and friends, changes in eating habits, changes in sleeping patterns, feeling of worthlessness, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating and thoughts of suicide.
Understanding the Effects– There are several negative effects that go along with teenage depression. They may start to have issues at school such as a drop in grades or suddenly skipping school. Teens that are depressed may run away from home as a cry for help. They may engage in reckless behaviors such as drinking alcohol, doing illegal drugs and unsafe sex.
Encouraging Them to Talk About Their Feelings– It is important that you talk to your teen as soon as you suspect they are dealing with this type of illness. You need to share your thoughts and feeling with your teen in a way that is non-judgmental. Then, allow your teen to share their thoughts and feelings with you.
Getting Treatment– This illness can be extremely damaging if it goes untreated. Some parents think that their teen’s symptoms will just go away but the fact is that they won’t go away and could get much worse. If your teen is suffering with this illness, it is important to get professional help right away.
