Teenage depression: Here’s what parents should know
Puberty can be challenging. Teenagers experience a lot of changes in their body, both physically and emotionally. While the physical changes are visible, and thus, privy to many, not everyone realizes that volatility of their mood makes teenagers highly susceptible to mental health problems like anxiety and depression. Depression is a debilitating mood disorder that can severely affect your child’s everyday life and can cause problems at home, school and among peer groups.
WHAT CAUSES DEPRESSION
Any combination of factors can trigger a mood disorder. It can be the result of external factors like history of trauma or stress caused by growing academic pressure and productivity expectations or unhealthy social interactions like bullying or social exclusion by peers. Another factor that contributes to depression may be biochemical imbalances in the brain. Some people also have a genetic predisposition to depression.
HOW TO TELL IF YOUR CHILD IS DEPRESSED
While occasional mood swings are to be expected during puberty, depression usually manifests itself in more serious ways. It expresses itself, at times, in the form of rebellious and unhealthy behaviours. Here are the symptoms of depression to watch out for:
Disturbed sleep cycle: If you observe that your child isn’t getting enough sleep, or are sleeping too much, spending more time in bed, it is indicative of depression. Kids in depression experience extreme fatigue and constantly complain about tiredness.
Smartphone addiction: Excessive consumption of virtual content can be an indicator of escapist tendencies. Escapism can be the outcome of clinical depression.
Withdrawing from family: Adolescents who experience depression tend to further isolate themselves and start spending less and less time with friends and family. They become inattentive and start withdrawing from people around them.
Reckless behaviour: Kids may show a tendency to engage in dangerous or high-risk behaviours if they are suffering through depression. This can take the form of irresponsible drinking or using recreational drugs to self-medicate.
Running away: Intensifying feelings of guilt, shame or embarrassment are commonly observed in teenagers suffering through depression. They engage in negative self-talk that leads them to question their worthiness. Many of them run away from home as a cry for help.
WHAT CAN PARENTS DO TO HELP?
Left untreated, depression can quickly turn into suicidal thoughts and self-harm. If you suspect that your child is suffering from depression, open a dialogue and address the issues in the most non-judgmental and sensitive way. Here is what you can do as a parent to help your teenager manage depression.
Listen. Don’t lecture: It is vital that your child feels heard when he opens up to you. Refrain from asking too many questions. Writing off their problems as easily solvable with a little exercise will make them feel alienated and close up even further. Be respectful of their boundaries.
Encourage social connection: Motivate your child to gradually rebuild social connections. Start at home. Set aside time to talk to her, invite her friends over, and encourage your child to spend time with their peer groups. However, do not rush your child into anything. Let the progress happen slowly. Forcing contact will not help them in any way.
Know when to seek professional help: If you observe the symptoms of depression continuing, consider consulting a therapist. Be supportive and patient throughout the treatment.