Youth and depression: Advice for parents

Everyone experiences ups and downs. However, for some people these down times turn into extended periods of deep sadness, along with feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness.

These periods may be an indication of depression and can be triggered by stress, a loss of some kind, a major disappointment, or a chemical imbalance.

Although most of us know someone who has struggled with depression or may even have experienced it ourselves, we rarely consider the possibility that our own children might be depressed. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in seven 10-19 year-olds worldwide experience mental health conditions, including depression.

Depression can be difficult to identify in children and teens. Their behaviour is viewed as the normal mood and behaviour changes that accompany growing up, instead of the result of a more serious emotional health issue.

Tips and tools you can use

Sometimes it's difficult for parents of depressed children and teens to understand how their young lives could possibly be so difficult. But kids view things differently and are under enormous pressures from school and from growing up in general. If you think your child or teen might be suffering from depression, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

Take note that a depressed child or adolescent may feel:

• unhappy
• worried
• guilty
• angry
• fearful
• helpless
• hopeless
• lonely
• rejected
• unconfident
• self-worthless
• self-dislike and self-blame

As a parent, be alert for behaviour changes in your child, including:

• withdrawal from friends and family
• crying easily
• sudden outbursts of anger
• showing less interest in sport and hobbies
• difficulty concentrating
• being unusually low key and/or lethargic
• a decline in school performance

In addition, physical signs of depression may include:

• headaches
• general aches and pains
• a lack of energy
• changes in sleeping or eating patterns
• feeling tired all of the time

How you can help

If you are concerned about your child’s wellbeing, here are some steps you can take:

• Encourage your child to talk to you about how they’re feeling.
• Check with your doctor to see if there is a physical cause for your child's feelings.
• Talk to your child's teacher to see if they’ve noticed any change in your child's behaviour.
• Talk to your child’s school counsellor.
• Recognise that depression is very treatable.
• Understand your own feelings about your child's depression. You may feel guilty or frustrated and may benefit from counselling to help you through this period.
• Take threats of suicide very seriously. Go to your local hospital, call emergency services, or contact your local crisis line or medical professional. Visit Suicide Stop for emergency contact numbers by country. See also One Million Lives for a list of global crisis hotlines.

If your child is showing some of the signs or symptoms of depression, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. A counsellor at your child’s school or a professional will be able to provide you with advice to help both you and your child cope with this difficult situation.