We often stereotype teenagers for their “moodiness.” They may not be happy all of the time. There’s a difference, though, between typical teenage blues and something much more severe.
That’s why it’s essential to recognize some of the common signs of depression or suicidal thoughts. If your teen is withdrawn, has issues sleeping, has abandoned their social activities, or sometimes talks about hurting themselves, you should never wait to take some action.
It’s not easy for a parent to think about their teen being depressed or suicidal. One of the best things you can do to help them is to keep calm and work through their issues by their side.
With that in mind, let’s look at three helpful ways to deal with a depressed, suicidal teenager.
1. Be the One to Bring It Up
If you’ve been noticing signs of depression in your teen, it’s okay to bring it up. Ask them calmly how they’re feeling. Or, if they’ve been having suicidal thoughts.
It can be a challenging conversation to have. However, it’s letting your teenager know you are available to talk, and you’re willing to talk about that difficult subject. When they know you’re open to listening, they are more likely to open up. The best thing you can do once they start talking is to remain calm.
That said, it’s essential not to push your teenager into talking. Think about how uncomfortable it might feel for them to open up to their parent about depressing thoughts — or even something worse.
Instead, bring the subject up in a gentle, open, and loving way. It’s crucial that they feel like you’re approaching them from a place of love rather than backing them into a corner to talk.
2. Actively Listen
It’s not enough to merely have a conversation about depression and suicide. You have to make sure you’re actively listening to what your teen has to say.
For example, try to gain information from the conversation. Learn about why they feel the way they do. Did something specific happen? How are they genuinely feeling? How long have they been feeling that way?
Active listening will help your teenager know they are being heard and value what they have to say. It is a simple action, but it can go a long way in getting your teen to talk more.
Validate their feelings, rather than judge them or tell them what they should and shouldn’t do. Let them know you understand and that it’s perfectly okay for them to feel the way they do. Sometimes, that validation is all a teen needs to start feeling better.
3. Seek Professional Guidance
Teen depression and suicide are nothing to take lightly. Even after talking with your teenager, it’s always an excellent idea to seek professional help. Most teens will benefit from talking to a therapist or counselor who specializes in such things.
If your teenager doesn’t want to talk to you about what they’re feeling or thinking, seeking professional help is even more vital. Getting to the bottom of those feelings can help your teenager to manage them better.
You might not be able to do that on your own (and you shouldn’t have to). A professional with experience in those areas can help your teen to understand their thoughts and feelings better. As a result, they can learn how to manage them effectively.
————–
If you’re worried that your teen is struggling with depression or might be suicidal, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Together, we can keep them safe and get to the bottom of what might be causing those feelings. Serenity EFTC offers teen counseling in Colorado.