My Child is Depressed: What can I do about it?

As a parent, it can be heart-wrenching to watch your teenager struggle with depression. It's a complex and often misunderstood condition that can have serious consequences if left unchecked. But with the right support and treatment, it is possible for teenagers with depression to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. In this post, we'll explore some of the common signs and symptoms of teenage depression, as well as ways to support and seek help for your teenager.

Here are ten possible signs that someone may be struggling with depression:

1. Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
2. Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
3. Changes in appetite and weight
4. Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
5. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
6. Loss of energy and increased fatigue
7. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
8. Difficulty functioning in daily life
9. Thoughts of death or suicide
10. Physical symptoms such as body aches and pains, or changes in bowel or bladder habits

It's important to note that these symptoms can vary from person to person, and someone experiencing depression may not have all of these symptoms. It's also important to seek professional help if you are experiencing any of these symptoms and they are affecting your daily life. Now that we have identified what depression CAN look like, let's identify some possible solutions.  Depression is such a slippery slope when dealing with mental health patients because they are such high risks.  One wrong treatment recommendation or idea processed in therapy may lead to an attempt at one's own life.  That's why JereMy focused his first Shortcast episode on depression in the minority community. 

If you have learned that you or someone you love is depressed, seek help as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Talk to a healthcare professional: Your primary care doctor or a mental health professional (such as a therapist or counselor) can help you determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.
2. Consider medication: In some cases, medication can be an effective treatment for depression. Your healthcare professional can help you understand the benefits and risks of different medications and determine if they are right for you.
3. Engage in self-care: It's important to take care of yourself when you are struggling with depression. This can include activities such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and finding ways to relax and manage stress.
4. Seek support: It can be helpful to talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist about your feelings and struggles. It can also be beneficial to join a support group or attend therapy sessions to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.
5. Practice positive coping mechanisms: It can be helpful to find healthy ways to cope with the challenges and stress of depression. This can include activities such as journaling, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in activities that you find enjoyable or fulfilling.

Listening to informative and interesting podcasts to help bring perspective to the topic is important in understanding mental health challenges surrounding depression. Listen to episode #23 of Minority Mindset: Winning in this unfair game of life . This episode gives context to the extremities of depression if not addressed at the onset of symptoms.  Learn more about mindset, minorities, and mental health from our new official page, Therapy Swag Radio.  

By: JereMy J. Rankins, MA LPC

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