Teenagers can often have a lot to deal with when it comes to their emotions. Raging hormones, a ton of insecurity, and pressures to be “cool” can cause an emotional rollercoaster everyday. From Twilight sweethearts Bella and Edward, to Shakespeare’s famous tragic couple, Romeo and Juliet, teens are often moody, rebellious and out of control. But depression is more than a passing mood. Some might mistake depression for the occasional blues and that mistake can have devastating consequences for a family. Here’s what you can do to take control of the situation:
- Keep a lookout for the symptoms. If you aren’t familiar with it, do your research. WebMD says that about 1 in 5 teens deal with depression at some point. Many don’t receive the proper treatment, though, leaving the condition grow worse. When it does, it can result in the following:
- Low grades because of a dismal performance at school
- Friendships and other major relationships suffer
- Risky sexual behavior
- Frequent physical illness
- Frequent suicide attempts
- Death
- Talk to your teen. Make sure your teen knows you love him and support him. Engage him in meaningful conversation. Don’t judge him or shame him in any way. That could set his treatment and recovery back.
- Get professional help. Consult a professional as soon as you suspect your teen is suffering from more than just the Monday blues. Don’t miss the signs. Depression is a cry for help. Provide your teen with timely treatment to ensure faster and better recovery. Teen depression treatment options in Los Angeles are plenty so you won’t have to worry about where to go and get help.
- Keep your home safe for your teen, suggests Medline Plus. Make sure you eliminate any temptations from your home or any triggers that could potentially set off another depressive bout. Keep doing this until your teen has learned how to effectively deal and manage his depression.
- Offer other ways to get better. Exercise is one way to get your teen to start living healthy and feeling better. Also encourage your child to participate in hobbies he enjoys and to cultivate better relationships. These relationships can help reduce, even eliminate, suicidal thoughts.
So don’t make the mistake of thinking depression is the same as an ordinary case of Monday blues. Seek out help. With timely intervention and assistance, your teen has the chance to recover from dark thoughts and suicidal tendencies.
Adolescent Growth offers adolescent health assistance and support. Know how you can boost your teen’s recovery. Call us!
