For many California parents, there are few thoughts more concerning than the health and well-being of their children. Often, during the teenage years, children face a variety of obstacles and challenges that can create mental instability. Parents who understand how to help their children cope with difficult times, how to recognize depression and what to do to combat it productively, can act as advocates and facilitate a healthy recovery.
According to Web MD, parents may begin to be concerned and suspect that their teenager is depressed if their child begins to isolate him or herself. If this kind of behavior becomes noticeable, parents should try to reach out to their child and involve him or her in exciting family activities. They may also sit down and talk with their child to find out which types of activities he or she finds entertaining. If they provide opportunities to do those things and the child still prefers isolation, he or she is most likely depressed and the issue should be addressed accordingly.
While professional intervention may be the most beneficial resource, Kids Health provides parents with some suggestions of other things they can do to facilitate their child’s recovery. Some of the things they can do include the following:
- Teach them about good nutrition and provide healthy food.
- Help them recognize positive things in life.
- Encourage them to exercise or be active for a good period of time each day.
Parents should provide a listening ear and encourage their depressed teen to talk about his or her problems. They should acknowledge difficulties and negative thoughts, but help their child find ways to get past those feelings in a healthy and productive manner.
