As any parent can attest, children – especially, those in their teens – are hard to figure out. The adolescent years are a time when kids pull away from their parents to spend more time with their friends. And it’s certainly a time when they are going to hit some bumps in the road as it pertains to friends, school and dating.
Oftentimes, these pitfalls of life can leave a teen more withdrawn or depressed. With such a pendulum of emotions, it often leaves parents and caregivers wondering what is normal and when they should intervene.
Mild mood swings are certainly to be expected. But if your child is inexplicably withdrawing from his or her friends or is unable to function normally at school or at home, it may be time to pay extra attention to their mental health.
We are here to provide information to help you understand the causes of depression and offer some strategies to help both you and your child.
Why is your child experiencing depression?
Children who are depressed often feel worthless, or hopeless. They may feel that no one understands them and they may even begin to believe that it’s futile to even try to make friends.
Know the warning signs.
Teenagers are teenagers. Mood swings and emotional episodes are all part of the package. But recognizing the difference between “normal” and serious can be life saving for your child. Here are some of the warning signs you should be aware of:
- Low self-esteem
- Lack of motivation
- Withdrawal from friends
- A feeling of hopelessness
- Bad grades in school
- Drastic changes in eating habits
- Fatigue
- Thoughts of suicide and death
