TACKLING YOUR TEENAGER’S DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY   

Written by Liza John    

If you have a child going through adolescence, you must be familiar with the tumultuous transitions that come along with it. The constant rebellion, anger, fashion experiments and mood swings could make you want to go back to toddler temper tantrums and 2 a.m. feeds.   

Statistically speaking, one out of every five adolescents around the world suffer from depression. It is very easy for your child to fall prey to a never-ending cycle of depression and anxiety while your child tries to cope with their raging hormones.   

However, with the right support system, depression is treatable. Teenagers are highly absorbent and are capable at learning strategies that help them build their mental health.   

Is Your Teen Depressed?   

It is vital for you to figure out if your teenager is suffering from clinical depression or regular hormonal spikes. Teen depression is a serious health disorder, it goes far beyond the constant trance of melancholy your child might be in.   

Feeling numb, social isolation, constant streams of negative thoughts and angry outbursts are all indicators of underlying issues. They could even turn to drugs or alcohol in an attempt to relieve their momentary distress which eventually worsens the situation.   

Another factor you should consider is low self-esteem and confidence in your child. Children who are depressed radiate a sense of hopelessness with a lack of enthusiasm and motivation. They could even fail to do even the simplest of tasks like daily chores and taking care of themselves.   

They would at times display sudden reckless behaviour or hostility. This emotional outburst might often end up in tearfulness and frequent crying. They might try to withdraw from friends and family, however pleasant the occasion might be.   

A change in eating and sleeping habits is another indicator you need to look out for.   

Is The Problem Worse?   

The problem, if not treated on time, can turn out to be drastic before you even realise it.   

“I wish I could leave this world forever”, “I do not find living worth”, “I do not find a way out to any of my problems”, etc. are all statements that need to be taken seriously. They might speak positively about death or romanticize it as the ultimate pain killer. In the worst-case scenario, they might even seek potential weapons, pills or other ways to kill themselves.   

What’s The Solution?   

The only solution during initial stages is communication. Depression isn’t a phase, it’s an issue that needs to be handled with care. Your child is not a kid any more who’s angry over something you didn’t get them at the grocery store. Your teenager is in a stage where their physical, hormonal, social and intellectual capacities are growing.   

Open a dialogue with your child, make them feel comfortable, assure them you can help, ask what’s going on in their life. Ask them if there’s anything they need help with, let them know they aren’t alone in this walk of life. Talk to them with an open mind, hold back from intruding too much. Let them talk with an open-heart, listen patiently and willingly, assure them you are always there for them, no matter what.   

Get them involved in activities they love and enjoy. Promote volunteering programs and help your youngster find and support causes they are interested in. This will give them a sense of purpose.   

Make physical activity a priority. Persuade them to move, dance, run, swim or do whatever they love. Limit screen time and switch off their phones for at least an hour before bedtime. Get them nutritious and balanced meals. Work on an ideal healthy diet. This will bring down the midnight fridge raids which could help them get plenty of sleep.   

Immediately get anything harmful, like a potential weapon or sleeping pills, out of the house or out of reach.   

It is highly unlikely for depression to fade away on its own without any dire consequences. Most teenagers don’t reach out for help by themselves, you will probably need to take the first step. Talking to a healthcare professional helps your child understand that they aren’t alone.   

However hard it becomes, always support your teen throughout treatment and therapy. Be patient and understanding. Being beside them throughout this stage of life can work wonders. Overcoming depression takes time and effort, all you need to do is to give your child assurance and support, even though the toughest times.