Teens today, more than ever, are faced with peer pressure, divorce, low self-esteem, and other life experiences which can impact their emotional well-being. Does your teen suffer from depression? Have you noticed signs of teen depression in your home? If not, here are the signs to look for.
Is your teen not eating properly? Does your teen have a tendency to sleep late on school days? Do you have trouble getting your teen out of bed to go to school? Is your teen spending a great deal of time in his or her rooms with the music blasting? Is the music foreboding? Are there dark and disturbing posters hung in your teen’s room? Does your teen seem listless and moody? Has your teen become isolated from friends and family members? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, you may be witnessing the signs of teen depression.
Most teenagers become moody; it’s a fact of life. But when the moodiness turns to depression, it is more serious and requires intervention. Talk to your child to determine the cause. If your child is not yet ready to discuss the problem, let your teen know you are always there; that they can rely on you to listen without passing judgment. Give them time to form the words to express how they feel. Sometimes, anger is the only way a teen can express their emotions. Be aware of this, and try to take the edge off by using safe words. Above all, do not lecture the teen or issue an ultimatum. This is more pressure they do not need. Do not change the subject when they are talking; their pain is real – acknowledge that it’s real. Recognize the signs of teen depression and deal with it as calmly and rationally as possible.
One of the signs of teen depression is they feel they are not living up to your standards. Assure them they are loved despite everything. Tell them there is nothing in this world that could change the way you feel about them. Give them the room to open up to you; and when they do, ensure it is safe for them to say anything, reveal anything. Do not discuss how you feel. This will just alienate the teen. It is not about you; it is about your teen and what he or she is going through.
When all else fails, and the signs of teen depression are growing worse, visit a therapist or psychologist as soon as you can. It can be a scary time, but remember this depression is not about you. Do not put a guilt trip on your teen by saying, “It’s my fault!” Be supportive, compassionate, understanding; but, most of all listen.
