Instant Assist: Immediate Strategies for Aiding a Depressed Adolescent
Supporting Teens with Depression: A Guide for Parents and Guardians
Depression in teenagers can be a challenging issue to navigate, but understanding the signs and seeking appropriate help can make a significant difference.
Recognising Depression in Teens
Teenagers may exhibit various symptoms if they are experiencing depression. These can include increased irritability, less talkativeness, more fatigue, emotional numbness, increased self-criticism, poor school performance, sensitivity to rejection, hopelessness, fatigue, concentration or memory challenges, appetite changes, uncharacteristic sleep changes, hygiene lapses, social isolation, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. Observing changes in a teen's sleep patterns, such as sleeping in more, could also be a sign. If a teen isolates themselves from family and friends, or abruptly drops an interest in a hobby, these could be signs of depression as well.
Seeking Professional Help
Ending therapy or medication for a teen with depression without guidance from a mental health professional could worsen their condition. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the best course of action.
Treatment Options
Several treatment options are available for teens with depression. These include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mental health apps, group therapy, and online group therapy. Vagus nerve stimulation therapy, which was conducted at the University Hospital Cologne on a teenager with treatment-resistant depression, is another potential treatment option.
Caring for Yourself as a Parent
Taking care of one's own mental health is essential to show up as the best possible parent for a teen navigating adolescence and depression. Maintaining open communication with a teen's pediatrician can help ensure they are up to date on any developments in the teen's depression.
Emergency Support
If a teen displays suicidal ideation or attempts, immediate help can be found at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which offers emergency support in English, Spanish, text, online chat, and TTY. Psych Central's resource for suicide support is another valuable resource in such critical situations.
Supporting a Guarded Teen
Active listening, where one listens more than talks, can help a guarded teen open up more during conversations. Validating a teen's experience, empathizing, and allowing independence can help foster a stronger relationship and encourage open conversations about sensitive topics.
Managing Depression-Related Symptoms
A teen with little to no appetite due to depression symptoms should have healthful items available for when they have more appetite. Limiting refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, and energy drinks can potentially worsen depression. Keeping depression-friendly foods such as apples, bananas, avocados, and meals rich in B vitamins, magnesium, and iron can help improve depressive symptoms.
Crisis Planning
Having a crisis plan, including phone numbers, emergency room directions, medical history, and crisis text line, can be helpful in a mental health crisis. This plan can provide a sense of security for both the teen and the parent or guardian.
By understanding the signs of depression, seeking professional help, and providing support, we can help our teenagers navigate this challenging period in their lives.
