How to Help a Teen Through Depression
- 1). Watch for clues that your teen is suffering from depression. Difficulties in school or problems with peers are signs that a teen may be unhappy. In addition, teens who suddenly lose interest in activities they once enjoyed should send up a red flag. A teen who becomes easily irritated or exhibits bouts of rage, along with physical symptoms that include nausea and headaches with no noticeable cause, may be suffering from depression.
- 2). Take the time to talk to your teen. Even though she may resist opening up at first, just the fact that you’re taking an interest in her and her problems offer her reassurance that she is not alone in the world.
- 3). Encourage your teen to take part in new activities. Depression makes one hide from the world, and many depressed teens suffer in silence. By introducing a new activity, you offer your teen the chance to make new friends. However, resist pushing your teen into competitive activities where he has little chance of success.
- 4). Change your teen’s diet. An unhealthy diet, filled with over-processed foods and high sugar contents, can undermine your teen’s health, bringing on a bout of depression.
- 5). Support your teen during tough times. Sometimes it’s difficult to defend your child’s behavior if that behavior is anti-social or disrespectful. You don’t have to accept it, but you do have to stand by your child. A depressed teen may test the limits of your love by doing something he knows is wrong. By condemning the act but showing him that you still love him, you encourage maturity and self-respect.
- 6). Schedule an appointment for your teen to see a counselor who is experienced in treating depression. When you can’t jolt your teen back to happiness, it’s time to consult a professional. When a teen becomes depressed, the risk of suicide increases.