Tips That May Help Your Child Cope With Depression
If your teenager is showing signs of depression and isn't interested in the activities that they once enjoyed, the following tips may help them express their emotions and overcome the issues that are holding them back. As a result, your child may begin to enjoy life again and look forward to each day.
Make An Appointment With A Psychiatrist
Make an appointment for your child to speak with a professional at an adolescent psychiatry clinic. If possible, meet with the psychiatrist by yourself before having them speak to your child so that you can give them some pertinent information about the behavior that your child has been expressing and gain insight into the problems that your child is facing.
Talk to your child about the psychiatrist and explain that they can tell them whatever they have on their mind without needing to worry about being judged. Discuss your child's progress with the psychiatrist after each session and follow any advice that they give you that may help your child.
Encourage Your Child To Document Their Feelings
Purchase a journal for your teenager and encourage them to write or draw in it on a daily basis. Your child may find that releasing their pent up emotions helps them feel calmer. After your child writes in the journal for a few weeks, they may find that it is therapeutic to read their past entries. They may notice a pattern in their feelings and become more aware of what causes them to feel withdrawn.
Participate In Activities Together
Set aside one night each week to spend time with your child and enjoy each other's company. Allow your child to choose one of their favorite activities for both of you to participate in. Watching a movie, bowling, putting a puzzle together, or cooking a meal together are all simple activities that can help you and your child bond. Relish each moment and speak openly with your child. If your teenager wants to talk about school or how they have been feeling, listen to them and offer words of encouragement.
After trying these tips, you may find that your teenager starts to interact more with you and others. Their depression may not seem as severe as it used to be. Continue to praise your child for their efforts and offer them a listening ear whenever they have something on their mind that is troubling them.