Teen Depression: 6 Ways Parents Can Help

Teen depression is on the rise. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, as of 2021, about 14.7% of kids aged 12-17 had a major depressive episode in the last year.

Teenagers have a lot on their plates. They’re trying to figure out who they are and what they want to be.

Their bodies are changing while their minds are growing.

They’re thinking about the future while trying to fit in and form relationships.

Read More: “What Parents Need To Know About Social Media And Teens’ Self-Esteem”

There is also no denying that we’re living in uncertain and somewhat tumultuous times. All of it adds up and can take a toll on your teen’s mental health.

As a parent, it’s important to pay attention to your teenager’s mental well-being. While you might not be able to fix everything for them, there are things you can do to make a difference.

Let’s cover a few strategies you can use to help if your teen is struggling with depression.

1. Be an Active Listener

Teens aren’t always known for being great communicators. You can’t force a conversation, but it’s okay to encourage them to engage.

Let your teen know you’re always there to listen, and don’t hesitate to ask questions to learn more about what they’re feeling.

Choose to be an active listener when they do open up. Limit distractions, use verbal and nonverbal cues, and assure them that their feelings are valid, no matter what.

2. Be Proactive

Look for warning signs that your teenager is struggling with their mental health. Changes in mood, appearance, or habits could indicate something is wrong.

If you do notice some changes, don’t criticize or judge them, but turn to gentle, non-emotional questions like “How are you feeling?” Sometimes, that’s all it takes to get them to open up.

3. Be a Role Model

It’s okay to share your own experiences with your teenager if you’ve struggled with depression. It can help them feel more connected to you and let them know that they aren’t alone.

Read More: “5 Tips To Engaging With Your Teen”

In addition to talking about your experiences, make sure you’re being a positive role model. They’re paying closer attention than you might think.

Show them healthy ways to manage their mental health by practicing self-care and using effective coping mechanisms.

4. Encourage Positive Lifestyle Choices

One of the common symptoms of depression is withdrawing from people and activities. Unfortunately, that often makes things worse. Encourage your teen to practice self-care every day. That includes engaging in their interests and leaning on their friends and family for support.

Things like making sure they’re staying physically active and getting enough sleep can also help with symptom management.

5. Limit Screen Time

It may be challenging to tell your teen that they have limits on their phone, but excessive screen time can have a negative impact on their mood and disrupt healthy sleep habits.

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A lack of sleep often exacerbates the symptoms of depression, creating a sort of vicious cycle. The less sleep your teen gets, the worse their depression is likely to become.

The worse it becomes, the less sleep they’ll get.

You don’t need to completely take away screen time from their life. However, it’s a good rule of thumb to set boundaries.

6. Reach Out for Professional Help

If you’re concerned that your teen is struggling with depression, don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist. Even if they aren’t exhibiting signs of depression, therapy can help your teenager learn how to prioritize their mental health.

That’s a skill they will take with them into adulthood.

While the idea of therapy for teenagers can be overwhelming as a parent, it may be the best way to help your teen understand what they’re feeling while providing them with the tools necessary to combat negative thought patterns.

If you want to learn more or set up a consultation, reach out to schedule with one of our teen therapists in Denver today.