Providing Help and Hope

There are several types of depression (including major depressive disorder and the milder, but chronic, dysthymia), and treatment depends on the situation. Most teen depression can be treated effectively with antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or a combination; research in adolescents suggests the combined approach works best. And don’t wait—if you see signs of depression, intervene quickly.

A handful of antidepressants, which act on brain chemicals, are approved for teens, and their use should be closely monitored. Various types of psychotherapy (talk therapy) exist, and it’s important to find a good match, as therapy is a relationship that requires trust and connection. Formal treatment aside, physical activities such as dance, yoga, or team sports can also make a significant difference.

One of the most important things parents can do? Ask, listen, and observe your child’s emotional health on a regular basis, whether or not you suspect a problem, therapists advise.

If your teenager starts showing symptoms, point out the specific behavior—for example, “I noticed you haven’t been seeing your friends as much as you used to, and I’m wondering if something’s going on.” If your teen is being self-destructive, avoid saying, “Don’t do that!” and instead, help him/her understand why they turned to that behavior (it may, for example, provide short-term relief from emotional pain) and whether there are alternatives. “The idea is to engage the prefrontal cortex, the part of their brain that has the capacity for solving problems and thinking rationally,” Bridger explains. “That part is not fully functional when your kid is in distress.”

The bottom line is to have hope, Bridger says. “Let your teenager know that depression is a treatable illness. It is an illness like diabetes. They shouldn’t feel ashamed, and they shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help. There is help.’”