Depression can strike at any age. When it strikes your teenager, it can be difficult to deal with constructively. Your child is not a toddler anymore and you can’t simply swoop in and make it all better. Parenting a teen with depression means learning to take a supportive role in your child’s life while helping them maintain healthy boundaries.
Here’s how to do it:
Don’t be afraid to talk to them about it
In order to support your teen, you can’t treat their depression like the elephant in the room. Cast a line and talk to your child. When you’ve noticed a change in their behavior, ask them if they need to talk to someone. If they’d like to open up to you, perfect. If they don’t, don’t react in a negative way.
If you act like your afraid, your child is going to reciprocate that fear. This will close the door of comfort and lead your teenager to feel like you understand their struggle. As intimidating as it may be as a parent to talk to your child about their mental health, do not shy away from it. When you ask your child questions like,
Speak Your Mind