Teenage depression can be just as elusive as many other medical conditions. It may seem like a fairly extreme bout of moodiness---something that, if left alone, they will eventually get over. But this despondent nature actually permeates almost every facet of your teen's life. It will start to affect his or her schoolwork, recreation, sports and relationships. If you think your teen is suffering from depression, there are a number of ways in which you as a parent can deal with this condition.
Instructions
1. Make an appointment with a health care professional. Depression is a serious problem and shouldn't be left untreated. While many teens are fairly "moody," you want to make certain your child isn't just going through adolescent angst. To ensure the proper treatment program is in place, a doctor specializing in mental health should be consulted.
2. Talk to your teenager. Making sure the doors of communication remain open is beneficial to the relationship between a parent and a child, and it can also ensure your teen feels comfortable coming to you in times of need. Even if your relationship may seem a little rocky, you still need to communicate.
3. Stay educated. It isn't enough to stay abreast of what is going on with your child's education and social life; you also need to make sure you understand the breadth of everything that can go on with your teen, including the symptoms of depression.
4. Make sure your teen takes any medications prescribed for his or her condition. Not that you need to be a "watchdog," but it is important to make sure your teen is taking any and all prescribed medication to properly treat his or her depression.
5. Get your teenager into therapy. Your teen may have a bunch of people he or she can talk to, but it is very beneficial to have someone in place who understands the nuances of depression. A therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist specializing in your teen's condition can provide just that understanding.
6. Start exercising. It may sound insignificant, especially when talking about depression, but exercise can actually help make a teen feel better. If you can find an activity for the entire family, it may help with your teen's condition. It may also strengthen your relationships and make it easier to keep communication flowing in a positive direction.
7. Get involved in a support group. Even parents of teens with depression need a chance to talk. A support group will give you and your spouse the opportunity to get support from other parents who've been through what you are currently going through.
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