How to Help Your Child with Teen Depression

Teen depression episodes affect millions of children in the U.S. At some point, roughly 20% of teens (ages 12-17) have experienced at least one depressive episode. Girls tend to be at more risk than boys; however, teen depression is treatable.

Ways to Help with Teen Depression

There is nothing like professional help when struggling with teen depression. However, there are things you can do as a parent or guardian to help your child through this challenging season. The following are several ways to help your child with teen depression.

Seek professional treatment

Major depression, if left untreated, can lead to self-harm or suicide. If your child has expressed suicidal ideations or you have noticed evidence of self-harm, such as cut marks, seek professional help immediately. Ideally, you want to get them help before depression gets to that stage.

Educate yourself about symptoms

Teen depression has many common symptoms, such as persistent sadness and withdrawal from friends and family. However, the condition can also make it tough for your child to concentrate on homework or tasks. Forgetfulness and memory problems are another symptom of teen depression. Educate yourself on the numerous symptoms to spot when your child needs help.

Keep communication open

Your teen needs to know they can come to you, and you will hear them out without judgment. This can be challenging for Christian parents today, but before you can guide them, you must know what is wrong. Your teen may not understand why they feel depressed. Depression can be due to factors outside of their control, such as genetics or environment. Let your teen know you will hear them out, and together, you will seek help.

Help them adopt good sleep hygiene

Good quality sleep plays a vital role in how a teen processes emotions. Sleep deprivation can make depression and anxiety symptoms worse. Help your child create a nighttime routine to signal their mind that it is time to rest.

For example, turn off devices at least two hours before bed, take a warm shower or bath, use a comforting lotion on damp skin, and settle into bed with a book or a warm beverage. Have your teen aim for eight to ten hours of sleep nightly, although this number can vary depending on the child’s needs.

Encourage Daily Exercise

Daily exercise and healthy meals free of ultra-processed ingredients will help boost your teen’s mood while lowering stress hormones. The boost from serotonin and dopamine will leave them feeling happy. This mood-enhancing effect is from heart-pumping exercises like a brisk walk. Help your child create a menu of healthier foods with a few treats to be enjoyed weekly and schedule exercise into their day. Even a 30-minute walk can make a difference.

Keep alcohol and drugs out of the home

Just like adults, children will seek to escape their pain. They may use video games, music, or other activities to lighten their load and boost their mood. Make sure they choose beneficial coping strategies. Remove alcohol and drugs from the home if you are worried about your child’s mental health. If your child has self-harmed or has suicidal ideations, you may want to lock prescription and over-the-counter medications in a safe until your child’s depression has lifted.

Christian Counseling for Teens in Carrollton, Texas

Teen depression is real, but your child can overcome it. Help them learn the skills and habits necessary to move past depression and lessen its grip. Christian counseling for teens is available in Carrollton, Texas. Simply call us at Texas Christian Counseling, Carrollton or complete the contact form to connect with a member of our reception team, who will connect you to a Christian counselor in Carrollton specializing in teen depression. Help is only a call or click away.