DEPRESSION
Although there’s a myth that childhood is a carefree, happy time, even children can feel deep sadness and depression. Here’s how you can help your child (or friend) cope with their feelings.
1. Give the child the right to have these feelings. Children can easily get the idea that it’s not okay to have these feelings and start to hide them rather than deal with them in a healthy way.
2. Tell the child the truth. We instinctively want to protect our children from pain, but kids are very adept at picking up when something is wrong. By being honest with them we allow them to work through the pain.
3. Give the child time to grieve, even over the small things. A pet fish may seem like a small thing to you, but may be a big deal to a child who’s never dealt with loss before.
4. Pay attention to his/her symptoms. If the symptoms are lingering for an extended period of time or you are seeing severe changes in their personality, it may be time to seek professional help
5. Teach him/her it’s okay to ask for help when they need it. Give them a list of people they may talk to such as you, a teacher, or counselor.
6. Don’t minimize the child’s feelings. It may seem small to you, but what counts is how it feels to him.
7. Although childhood suicide is rare, it does happen. Always take it very seriously if your child says he feels like he wants to die.
8. Be aware of the impact your own responses to life are having on your child. Your child learns coping skills by watching you.
9. Talk to the child about depression in terms that he can understand using vocabulary appropriate to his age.
10. Reassure your child that depression is not something to be ashamed of nor is he crazy. All of us feel sad in response to sad situations. Some of us have an illness that makes it harder for us to recover from sadness. |
Parents and adolescents should be aware of the warning signs of depression and suicidal thoughts. It is important to take the time to communicate with the depressed individual. Make sure that he or she gets help from responsible adults.
Possible Warning Signs:
Sadness, irritability, loss of pleasure, sudden change in behaviour, change in appetite, change in sleep pattern, change in dress or appearance, tiredness, feelings of worthlessness or lower self esteem, aggressive, angry or agitated behavior, thoughts of death, increased risk taking, withdrawal (from friends, activities, and family), gives up valued possessions and settles unfinished business.
Tips:
The fact that a child is depressed does not automatically mean he will need medication. Many children respond well to counsel or therapy alone. If you are uncertain where to seek help, your child’s school counselor or your family physician can give you a referral.
Editor's Note: I implore you to speak to your parents, legal guardian or a trusted adult about whatever issues you are going through. Otherwise feel free to visit
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Remember that, a problem shared is half solved and a stitch in time saves nine and in this case maybe life. |
