A Parent's Point of View : Depression Symptoms vs. Low Mood
Teenagers frequently experience poor moods and withdrawals. They might be dealing with many situations and probably need some personal space. However, if they continue having these symptoms over an extended period, they might suffer from depression. Depression affects people's moods and can cause them to constantly feel sad or be in a low mood.
Understanding the distinction between being depressed and having a low mood is helpful for parents. It could help you recognize what your child is going through and what support they might need. Some of the symptoms of depression are constantly feeling sad, anxious, exhausted, or angry. Symptoms can also include feeling down or having low self-esteem.
If your child has depression and does not get help, the sadness and suffering can linger and even worsen over time. Your child's emotions may become debilitating and could prevent them from engaging and enjoying activities they ordinarily would. It can be very challenging to help your child with depression without the proper medical assistance and support.
How to Help your Child with Depression
Start a conversation. It could be challenging to start the conversation, but it is essential for helping your child. Make a plan for a specific time and place and have at least an hour of uninterrupted time so the discussion can be in-depth without having to stop for other obligations. Let your child know that you are there to listen and help them. Discuss whether anything specific is causing them to feel this way. If your child is initiating the conversation, make yourself available.
Plan time to regularly speak to your older children about how they are feeling. Tell them if you noticed a change in their mood, if they are struggling to get out of bed, or if their daily activities have drastically changed. Actively listen to them and reassure them of your love and support.
Encourage them to speak to someone else if they don't feel comfortable talking to you right now while assuring them that you'll be there if they want to talk. If they don't want to talk, try another day or ask them to go with you to a support group. Please encourage them to speak to a doctor, a therapist, or a counselor. They need your help and guidance and are probably confused about what is happening to them.
Encourage your child to think of activities they enjoy doing. Ask them to list things that make them happy and uplift their moods, and do those things with them. Remind them what they like if they cannot think of something. As soon as they feel capable, assist them in performing these things step-by-step; this could include working out, playing sports, listening to music and dancing, coloring or painting, or taking a stroll with you. These activities will cause them to create motion which, in turn, makes endorphins. Endorphins are chemicals in your body that helps reduce stress and improve your sense of well-being.
Help your child carry out daily tasks that contribute to their well-being; this includes waking up at the same time each day, eating regularly, exercising, drinking water, spending time with loved ones, and getting enough sleep. Teens need a minimum of eight to ten hours of sleep per night. It could be beneficial to consider setting screen-time restrictions. Avoid being awake in the middle of the night. Children must have a regular sleep schedule because if they stay up during the night, that is when depression can become stronger.
Read self-help books and watch videos with your child. Reassure them of your love and help them understand that these feelings and emotions would improve if they get help. Make an appointment with your doctor so they can provide assistance and a recommendation for counseling or therapy.
With the right help and tools, it is possible to help, guide, and support your child with depression.