When you think back to your childhood, it’s easy to recall the carefree highlights of youth. However, children today live in a different world than the generations before them. Social media, technology, and the speed of information force kids to grow up fast, even if biologically they’re not ready.
Sadly, this can result in added pressures, stress, and feelings of unease that magnify other issues. Paired with the realities of life, personal experience, and predisposition, more kids are facing mental health challenges. As a parent, you’re the first line of defense in identifying these issues and providing support to your child. Read on to learn how to help your child battle their depression demons and set the foundation for mental well-being.
1. Learn About Therapy and Other Professional Help Options
Therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and today there are many ways to get your loved one the support they need. From teletherapy to in-person counseling and even rehab for depression, there are options for every child.
Virtual therapy is accessible with a good internet connection, and it also saves time. If your child is more tech-savvy, they may be more receptive to this offering than others. Traditional in-person therapy can provide customized, personal support that can promote healing. While children, especially teens, may be wary of sharing their feelings with an adult, one-to-one conversations build trust. Therapists can also observe nonverbal communication and changes in appearance and demeanor, which can help inform their treatment plan.
When your child’s depression becomes more serious or their current environment isn’t suitable for healing, rehab for depression is available. Customized treatment plans and full-circle support create an environment for healing that even the most well-being-conscious home can’t provide. With therapists, living arrangements, and programming designed for those managing depression, rehab is an excellent option for depression recovery.
2. Differentiate the Signs of Depression From Typical Childhood Challenges
Adolescence is a constant rollercoaster of emotions, hormones, and experiences. Whether it’s stress at school, conflict with friends, or their own thoughts, there are lots of things that can get your child down. You’ll need to distinguish the signs of depression from the normal turbulence of youth.
Support your child by learning what signs may indicate depression apart from thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are more typical. A bad grade or two is normal, but a sudden drop in grades or disinterest may be a warning sign. Bad days happen, but if your child is in a constant state of hopelessness, take note.
One or several symptoms, especially those you observe for a long time, may indicate depression in your child. Low self-esteem, withdrawal, significant changes in diet, sleeping too much, aches and pains, and even suicidal thoughts may occur. Take note of your observations and be mindful of how you ask your child about their feelings. They may feel scared of or ashamed about their feelings, so focus on listening before assigning a name to their condition.
3. Promote Healthy Communication and Connection as a Family
Your home is the foundation for your family members’ experiences in the outside world. If your home life is chaotic, it puts everyone at risk of taking that standard outside. Start by assessing your home environment, interpersonal norms, and familial culture to determine what you’re teaching. If what you observe is less than ideal, take heart: Every family can learn to improve their current state.
Most behaviors are learned from our parents or caregivers. If you grew up in a household where yelling was the norm, you likely do the same. However, yelling can be stressful, especially for the younger members of the family, even if it’s not done in anger. Practice communicating clearly, concisely, and with an even tone. Acknowledge everyone in the conversation, holding space to listen, reflect, and respond.
Review your priorities as a family, too. If sitting together around the television nightly is tradition, shake things up and promote interaction instead. While movie nights are fun, they don’t replace human connection and relationships. Loneliness is prevalent among children managing depression, so prioritizing quality time with family and friends can help.
4. Model Mental Well-Being and Self-Care as a Caregiver
Parenting is challenging on the best days, and when your child needs more of you, it takes a toll. Model healthy behavior and what it looks like to care for your own mental health. Get adequate rest, the lack of which can worsen depression and your overall mood. In addition, make sure to eat a balanced diet and engage in daily exercise. Invite your child to join in and build your health, relationship, and resiliency together.
Get into therapy yourself, even if you feel like you’re not experiencing a specific issue. Mental health should be part of everyone’s regular healthcare practice, especially those serving as caregivers. Therapy can help you learn more about yourself, how to navigate challenges, and support your child through depression.
Release the stress many caregivers often hold on to during your sessions and get professional support in managing your responsibilities. When you do, you can be in the best fighting shape to help your child battle the demons of depression.
A Comrade in Arms in the Fight Against Depression
You are your child’s first confidante, so the more you learn about depression, the more you can help them. By educating yourself on the signs, support options, and strategies you can implement, the better your child can heal. Plus, by working on your own mental health, you can be mentally strong and ready to manage the responsibility of caregiving. Adopt a family philosophy of mental well-being, eliminate social stigma, and embrace the journey of mental health together.
