10 Things You Can Do To Help Your Child With Depression
Parenting is rewarding but challenging. The pain your child is in is among the most difficult things to handle. You probably feel terrified and powerless if you find that your child is depressed. However, there are things you can do to support your child with depression.
- Understand that Clinical Depression is a Psychological Condition
Your child will benefit in two ways from your internalization of this fact. One, it should prevent you from blaming your child or yourself. Nobody is to blame for this. The second benefit is that you won’t say something silly to your child, such as, “Why don’t you just pull yourself together,” or “Stop feeling sorry for yourself,” if you view depression as a disease rather than a choice they are making.
- Try Not to Panic
Your child won’t benefit at all from your panicking. More than 80% of the time, clinical depression can be successfully treated. Your child has a very good chance of recovering as long as they have a reliable doctor and understanding parents.
- Do Your Homework
Try reading up on the signs, causes, and remedies for depression. The more informed you are, particularly regarding available treatments, the more effectively you can speak up for your child both at school and in the healthcare system.
- Explain to Your Child that Experiencing Depression is Normal
Something that kids believe is that telling their parents about their struggles or perceived flaws will upset them. Create a safe space for your child and tell them that nothing they could possibly say would bother you more than if you were unable to assist them as they were afraid to confide in you.
- Communicate with Your Child Regularly
This might be a difficult task. Children can be reserved, as any parent who has ever asked their children how school was and received the response “Fine” will attest to. Talking is usually the last thing someone wants to do when they’re depressed. Give your child some low-stress, low-distraction opportunities to chat with you, like going on a stroll or cooking a meal together.
- Be an Advocate for Your Child in the HealthCare System
Verify if their doctor is informed, compassionate, and a good listener. By seeking psychiatric services on your child’s behalf, you can take control of their care. Make sure your child attends all of their visits and takes their medication as directed. The only thing that will change anything is treatment, whether it be through therapy, medication, or both.
- The “S” word Need not be Feared
You might be reluctant to inquire about your child’s suicidal thoughts out of concern that you’ll accidentally put that idea in their head. Do not worry. Maybe they are already contemplating suicide, in which case talking about it might be extremely relieving. If they haven’t, discussing it openly will provide them the opportunity to do so if the situation changes.
- Encourage Your Kid to Socialize
Even if a depressed person tends to avoid social events, encourage them. An individual going through this needs the support system that contact with friends and family can give them.
- Encourage your Child to Get Help
Your child can overcome the self-destructive and self-hating thought patterns that depression causes by receiving therapy and non-invasive treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
- Be Patient
Change won’t happen overnight, but your child will benefit from your continual attention and support. If you feel like you need help coping with the situation, be sure to seek professional assistance.
