Depression is one of the most common mental disorders among children and teens. According to the CDC, about 4.4% of children ages 3-17 experience depression, which can negatively impact them. If you suspect your child is struggling with depression, you don’t have to help them manage symptoms on your own. In this article, you’ll learn the different ways you can support a child with depression so they can better manage their symptoms and lead a healthier, happier quality of life.

Embrace U is an adolescent mental health clinic in Brentwood, Tenn. committed to helping young people ages 10-18 receive the help that they need to better manage their mental disorder symptoms. We offer a range of comprehensive treatment options to help your child heal and manage symptoms of a mental illness while also growing as a whole person to feel empowered and supported. 

Contact us today to learn how we can help your child better manage their mental illness. 

Top 5 Ways to Support a Child with Depression

Don’t Try to Fix, Listen!

It can be hard to watch your child struggle with depression. However, rather than going straight into action and trying to “fix” your child’s depression, it’s important you actively listen and support them. Depression isn’t something you can fix overnight. However, listening to your child and understanding what they’re going through can provide a judgment-free, safe, and supportive space. Encourage them to talk openly with you about their depression, rather than being closed off about what they’re struggling with. 

Seek Professional Support for Depression

You should never feel like you are solely responsible for helping your child manage their depression symptoms. It’s important to consider working with a mental health professional to better manage their depression symptoms safely and effectively. The types of professional support your child needs depend on the severity of their depression. If your child is suffering from mild depression, consider seeking professional support from a therapist or outpatient mental health care facility. However, if your child is struggling with a more severe case of depression, you may want to consider inpatient care options. 

Avoid Judgment

The last thing you want to do is express judgment or criticize a child with depression. This could make them feel uncomfortable or unwilling to communicate with you. It can also lead them to feel more isolated and alone with their depression. Try to understand and empathize rather than blame and shame a child with depression. Remember that depression is not a phase, or a sign of weakness. It’s a mental health disorder that requires treatment and support. 

Watch for Signs of Self-Harm

If you notice your child is showing signs of self-harm or suicidal ideation, it’s essential you act immediately and seek professional support to better manage their symptoms. Look for a mental health professional who has experience with children who have expressed suicidal thoughts. It’s important that you and your child feel comfortable with the person or team that will be providing treatment and support.
One of the best things you can do is talk to your child about their feelings. Show them that they have someone safe to talk with. If you believe your child is in danger of attempting suicide call 988 or 911 and get help right away. 

Be Patient and Love Unconditionally 

Depression doesn’t go away overnight. However, with patience and persistence, depression symptoms can be better managed so your child can lead a healthier, happier life. Therefore, be patient with your child as they seek professional help and support toward improving their mental health and well-being. Support and love your child unconditionally as they strive towards improving their mental health.

Leading Adolescent Mental Health Treatment 

It can be challenging watching your child struggle with depression. However, you should never feel like you are solely responsible for supporting your depressed child all on your own. Although, as a parent, it’s critical you are patient and constantly supportive, there are professional mental health treatment centers that can help provide the comprehensive support and care your child needs to manage their depression symptoms and regain control over their life for the better.

At Embrace U, we use a holistic approach to best help teens struggling with mental health. We understand that no two patients are the same. That’s why we offer a range of treatment options at our Brentwood IOP for teens to best support your teen as they progress along their mental health journey. 

If you suspect your teen is struggling with depression, contact us today to learn how we can help your teen live a healthier, happier life.