Thursday, March 28, 2024

How To Explain Depression To A Child

Managing Depression In Children: Professional Support

Depression Explained for Kids

Your childs psychologist or psychiatrist might use cognitive behaviour therapy to help your child change unhelpful or unhealthy thinking habits and behaviour.

Your childs therapist might use other approaches like relaxation, mindfulness, play therapy, parent therapy or family therapy to help your child learn to think more positively and deal with challenges. This means your child will be less likely to have depression again.

Think of yourself and your childs health professionals as a team. Talk with the professionals about how you can support your childs therapy at home.

Talking To Your Kids About Depression: 6 Practical Tips

Now that you understand what depression is, you can begin to approach the topic with your kids. Here are seven practical tips to help you do just that.

  • Introduce mental health vocabulary early on.
  • Talking about mental health with your children is so much easier if they have the right vocabulary. From an early age, consider introducing your children to common mental health words and phrases.

    While they may not be able to understand the concept of depression right away, you can still introduce them to simpler words for emotions like worry, sadness, and fear. If you need help with this, there are many childrens books out there that can help you introduce these words to your child.

  • Encourage your child to speak freely about their emotions.
  • In addition to exposing your child to common mental health vocabulary, you should also encourage them to actually use these vocabulary words for themselves! Throughout each day, make sure to ask your child how they are feeling. If your child tends to turn to physical means of expressing themselves, try to encourage them to use words rather than actions to explain their emotions to you.

    When children grow up in households that are open about emotions from the beginning, they are better prepared to discuss more complex mental health topics like depression as they age into adulthood.

  • Stick to the facts.
  • Give them some space.
  • Ease worries by providing reassurance.
  • Keep an open line of communication.
  • Tip : Support Your Teen Through Depression Treatment

    As your depressed teenager goes through treatment, the most important thing you can do is to let them know that youre there to listen and offer support. Now more than ever, your teenager needs to know that theyre valued, accepted, and cared for.

    Be understanding.Living with a depressed teenager can be difficult and draining. At times, you may experience exhaustion, rejection, despair, aggravation, or any other number of negative emotions. During this trying time, its important to remember that your child is not being difficult on purpose. Your teen is suffering, so do your best to be patient and understanding.

    Stay involved in treatment. Make sure your teenager is following all treatment instructions, whether its attending therapy or correctly taking any prescribed medication. Track changes in your teens condition, and call the doctor if depression symptoms seem to be getting worse.

    Be patient. The road to your depressed teenagers recovery may be bumpy, so be patient. Rejoice in small victories and prepare for the occasional setback. Most importantly, dont judge yourself or compare your family to others. As long as youre doing your best to get your teen the necessary help, youre doing your job.

    You May Like: Adjustment Disorder With Anxiety And Depressed Mood

    How To Help A Depressed Teenager

    Depression is very damaging when left untreated, so dont wait and hope that worrisome symptoms will go away. If you suspect that your teen is depressed, bring up your concerns in a loving, non-judgmental way. Even if youre unsure that depression is the issue, the troublesome behaviors and emotions youre seeing are signs of a problem that should be addressed.

    Open up a dialogue by letting your teen know what specific depression symptoms youve noticed and why they worry you. Then ask your child to share what theyre going throughand be ready and willing to truly listen. Hold back from asking a lot of questions , but make it clear that youre ready and willing to provide whatever support they need.

    Involve Your Child In Treatment Choices

    How To Help Your Child With Depression

    When choosing a specialist or pursuing treatment options, always get your teens input. If you want your teen to be motivated and engaged in their treatment, dont ignore their preferences or make unilateral decisions. No one therapist is a miracle worker, and no one treatment works for everyone. If your child feels uncomfortable or is just not connecting with the psychologist or psychiatrist, seek out a better fit.

    Also Check: Non Antidepressants Used For Depression

    Professional Compassionate Depression Support At The Dawn

    The Dawn Wellness Centre and Rehab Thailand is a unique residential treatment centre that offers holistic, compassionate mental health and addiction treatment for those looking to change their lives for the better. Our experienced, international staff work with each one of our clients to develop a personalised treatment plan designed to address your specific needs. At our depression retreat Thailand, we specialise in treating depression as well as co-occurring disorders, and are the only residential treatment centre in Thailand to offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation treatment, a highly effective, non-invasive therapy for treatment-resistant depression.

    Let Them Absorb The News

    When kids get unexpected and upsetting news, they need time to process it. Give them time to think about what youve told them.

    Once theyve had a few hours or days with the information, theyll probably come back to you with questions. If they dont have much to say at first and you havent heard back from them in a few days, check in with them to make sure theyre OK.

    You May Like: Nac For Anxiety And Depression

    Does Depression Affect Children

    Depression can affect people of any age, including children. Although children naturally have mood swings as they grow and develop, depression is different. The disorder can affect how children interact with friends and family. It may prevent them from enjoying school, sports, hobbies or other normal childhood activities.

    In children, depression and anxiety often go hand in hand. Anxiety is a medical condition that causes feelings of fear, panic or worry about everyday situations. Sometimes, depression or anxiety in children gets chalked up to growing pains. But if you have any concerns about behavioral or mental health, talk to a healthcare provider.

    Talk To Your Family Doctor

    Depression: A Student’s Perspective

    If you have a checkup scheduled, you can always ask to be screened for depression or anxiety when you see your doctor. If you dont have an appointment, you can ask your parents to schedule one, explaining that youd like to be screened just in case.

    Often times, parents will trust a doctor youve been seeing regularly more than they trust therapists or psychiatrists, and this can be a bridge to getting the care you need.

    Depression can affect anyoneeven a person who appears to live in relatively ideal circumstances.

    Several factors can play a role in depression:

    • Biochemistry: Differences in certain chemicals in the brain may contribute to symptoms of depression.
    • Genetics: Depression can run in families. For example, if one identical twin has depression, the other has a 70 percent chance of having the illness sometime in life.
    • Personality: People with low self-esteem, who are easily overwhelmed by stress, or who are generally pessimistic appear to be more likely to experience depression.
    • Environmental factors: Continuous exposure to violence, neglect, abuse or poverty may make some people more vulnerable to depression.

    Recommended Reading: Can Depression Be Treated Without Antidepressants

    What To Tell Them

    There arent any right words when it comes to speaking about our illness. Exactly what we say will depend on the age of the child were talking to, and how much we want them to know.

    We dont have to tell them all the ins and outs of our illness. We can start with very basic details. Over time, our child is likely to ask more questions, and begin to build up their own picture of our illness. Giving our child loads of details all at once can be overwhelming.

    Its important to be honest as possible with our children, without overloading them. They will probably be able to tell if were not telling the truth, and that can make it hard for them to trust us.

    Depending on the age of our child, they might worry about things such as whether it means were going to die. Young children are likely to relate our illness to what they know about physical illness. Its important to try and ask them if they have any worries, and clarify some of these details with them.

    How To Communicate With A Depressed Teen

    Focus on listening, not lecturing. Resist any urge to criticize or pass judgment once your teenager begins to talk. The important thing is that your child is communicating. Youll do the most good by simply letting your teen know that youre there for them, fully and unconditionally.

    Be gentle but persistent. Dont give up if they shut you out at first. Talking about depression can be very tough for teens. Even if they want to, they may have a hard time expressing what theyre feeling. Be respectful of your childs comfort level while still emphasizing your concern and willingness to listen.

    Acknowledge their feelings. Dont try to talk your teen out of depression, even if their feelings or concerns appear silly or irrational to you. Well-meaning attempts to explain why things arent that bad will just come across as if you dont take their emotions seriously. Simply acknowledging the pain and sadness they are experiencing can go a long way in making them feel understood and supported.

    Trust your gut. If your teen claims nothing is wrong but has no explanation for what is causing the depressed behavior, you should trust your instincts. If your teen wont open up to you, consider turning to a trusted third party: a school counselor, favorite teacher, or a mental health professional. The important thing is to get them talking to someone.

    Read Also: Clinical Depression And Anxiety Disorder

    Causes Of Teen Depression

    Biological factors, such as genes, can increase a teens risk of developing depression. However, environmental and social conditions also have a role to play. The following factors may trigger or exacerbate symptoms of depression in your teen:

    Bullying.Being bullied by peers can add stress to a teens life and affect their self-esteem. This can, in turn, trigger feelings of intense helplessness and hopelessness.

    Other mental and physical health conditions. Teen depression is associated with a number of other mental health problems, including eating disorders, self-injury, anxiety, ADHD, or a learning disorder. The struggles that accompany these conditions may lead a teen to feel unconfident and frustrated when it comes to academics and socializing. Similarly, physical disabilities or chronic illness can also play a role.

    Past and present stressful experiences. Past trauma from violent or abusive situations can put teens at risk of depression as well as post-traumatic stress disorder . Recent events, such as the loss of a loved one, can also trigger a depressed mood.

    Lack of social support. Teens who feel unsupported by family or peers are at risk of depression. For example, a teen may be struggling with their sexual identity in a hostile or unaccepting environment.

    Depression and social media use

    What To Do If Youre Worried About Depression In Children

    Recognizing youth depression at home and school

    Depression doesnt go away on its own. You need to help your child if you think they have depression.

    Heres what to do:

    • See your GP, and get a referral to a paediatrician, psychiatrist or psychologist who can diagnose depression in children.
    • If you cant get help quickly, feel concerned about your childs safety or dont know what to do, find your local area mental health service by calling your nearest hospital or by calling Lifeline on 131 114.
    • If your child is having trouble talking to you about how theyre feeling, you could ask if they want to talk to another trusted adult. But always let your child know that youre there for them and want to understand whats happening.
    • If your child is five years old or older, they can talk with a Kids Helpline counsellor by calling 1800 551 800 or using the Kids Helpline email counselling service or the Kids Helpline web counselling service.
    • help your child get better faster
    • reduce the risk that your child will have depression later in life
    • help your child grow up healthy and well.

    Your GP will probably talk with you about a mental health treatment plan for your child. If you have a plan, your child can get Medicare rebates for up to 20 sessions with a mental health professional. You can also get Medicare rebates for visits to a paediatrician or psychiatrist.

    Read Also: How Do I Get Rid Of Depression Without Medication

    Explaining Depression To Children

    Today is the start of a new series exploring mental illness and children. Now Im not a parent, but I am a daughter whos struggled with her mental health. Ive spent a lot of time around children and have seen the impact of mental illnesses on families. I will be exploring different aspects and sharing my opinions and some tips feel free to share yours too!

    Depression impacts all parts of our life. If you have children in your life, having depression can be especially difficult. You may feel guilty that you cant always be fun and playful. Being snappy or grumpy is a natural part of life, but sometimes it can feel like its taking over your life. Explaining this to children may help to strengthen your relationship.

    If depression is affecting how you interact with a child, you may consider telling them that you are poorly. Remember that children are perceptive they will notice changes in our behaviour and if these changes arent explained, they may come to believe theyre somehow responsible for them. Introducing children to mental health also helps to normalise it.

    Come From A Place Of Love And Care

    When speaking to your child about depression, be sure you come from a place of love and care. Being able to speak to your child in a caring, loving manner will help them understand more than if you were harsh or critical.Its best to explain the concept of depression with your child from a perspective of understanding that its okay not to feel happy all the time. Sometimes emotions like sadness, anger, and fear are normal and healthy for an individual. If you can help your child understand that these feelings are natural, it may make them feel less alone.

    Recommended Reading: Leading Cause Of Depression In America

    Seek Support For Symptoms Of Depression

    Depression is often not recognised and can go on for months or even years if left untreated. Its important to seek support as early as possible, as the sooner a person gets treatment, the sooner they can recover.

    Untreated depression can have many negative effects on a persons life, including serious relationship and family problems, difficulty finding and holding down a job, and drug and alcohol problems.

    There is no one proven way that people recover from depression. However, there is a range of effective treatments and health professionals who can help people on the road to recovery.

    There are also many things that people with depression can do for themselves to help them recover and stay well. The important thing is to find the right treatment and the right health professional for a persons needs.

    Prevention Of Anxiety And Depression

    What is Depression? more videos | #aumsum #kids #science #education #children

    It is not known exactly why some children develop anxiety or depression. Many factors may play a role, including biology and temperament. But it is also known that some children are more likely to develop anxiety or depression when they experience trauma or stress, when they are maltreated, when they are bullied or rejected by other children, or when their own parents have anxiety or depression.

    Although these factors appear to increase the risk for anxiety or depression, there are ways to decrease the chance that children experience them. Learn about public health approaches to prevent these risks:

    You May Like: How To Deal With A Depressed Spouse

    Explaining Depression To A Child

    Living with Depression, Supporting Someone with Depression, With Audio | byBlurt Team|

    Depression impacts all parts of our life. It can affect our work, our day-to-day routines, and the way we relate with other people. When we have children in our lives, having depression can be especially difficult. We feel guilty that we cant always be fun and playful. We might be snappy, or withdraw.

    If depression is affecting how we interact with a child, we should consider telling them that we are unwell. Children are perceptive they will notice changes in our behaviour and if these changes arent explained, they may come to believe theyre somehow responsible for them.

    What Should I Do If I Think My Child Is Depressed

    If you think your child is depressed:

    Talk with your child about sadness and depression. Kids might not know why they are so sad and why things seem so hard. Let them know you see that they’re going through a hard time and that you’re there to help. Listen, comfort, offer your support, and show love.

    Set up a visit with your child’s doctor. Let your child’s doctor know if sad or bad moods seem to go on for a few weeks. By itself, this doesn’t always mean a child is depressed. Tell your child’s doctor if you have also noticed changes in your child’s sleep, eating, energy, or effort. Tell them if your child is dealing with a loss, a big stress, or hardship.

    The doctor will do a physical exam. A full exam lets the doctor check for health issues that could cause your child’s symptoms. They can also check for depression. Your child’s doctor may refer you to a child therapist. The doctor’s office might have a child therapist on staff.

    Set up a visit with a child therapist. A child therapist will spend time talking with you and your child. They will do an in-depth check for depression by asking questions and listening. The therapist can explain how therapy can help your child.

    Take your child to therapy visits. The therapist may suggest a few visits, or more. Therapy can take time, but you will see progress along the way.

    Also Check: How Do You Help Someone With Severe Depression

    Popular Articles
    Related news