Encourage social activity.
Through communication, the self-awareness of adolescents expands. This is due to the fact that the teenager discovers his inner world, which determines his individuality and uniqueness. Because of the fragility of the inner world, the adolescent needs approval, acceptance among his peers. In early adolescence, self-knowledge occurs through communication with friends and classmates, gradually external dialogue turns into internal dialogue, ie thinking about yourself. That is, external dialogue is a threshold of internal.
If your child starts to distance himself from you, ignores the request or takes the advice as a reproach, do not be angry with him. You need to be a friend to your child and talk to him more. Schedule a conversation in advance. Turn off your cell phone and do not be distracted by other things while talking. Regular personal dialogue can significantly reduce your child’s stress levels.
Actively fight the social isolation of your child. Make sure your child goes out for a walk with friends or invites them home. Invite him to sign up for dance, sports, music, or the arts. Despite the fact that at first he lacks motivation and interest in this activity, over time the situation will change.
Seek professional help if necessary.
When choosing a specialist, be sure to listen to your child’s opinion, let him make his choice. This is exactly the tactic that will not hurt his pride. This method will help to find a therapist with whom the child will be comfortable. Therapists usually start with simple conversations and often find the cause of the problem.
If such a doctor prescribes antidepressants, carefully check the psychological state of the child. Panic attacks, excessive anxiety and aggression may indicate that they are being taken incorrectly.
Support your child during the treatment of depression
If you decide to consult a specialist, it does not mean that you do not need to do anything now. Offer support and listen to the child. Now, more than ever, your child needs to know that they are cared for, valued and understood.
Living with a depressed teen can be difficult and exhausting. From time to time you may experience fatigue, rejection, despair or any other negative emotions. It is important to understand that the child is not doing this out of anger, so do not take offense at him and treat him with patience and understanding. Make sure your child carefully follows the therapist’s instructions, attends therapy, and takes the prescribed medication (such as Aropax or Arrow-Amitriptyline).
Take care of yourself.
Be sure not to overload your physical and mental health. Because it depends on your health whether you can emotionally cope with all the difficulties. Do not accumulate your emotions. Different feelings are normal – from time to time you may feel depressed, frustrated and helpless. Talk to your friends and talk about how you feel.
Avoid only one emotional state – guilt. Feelings of guilt will not lead to anything good and will also add more stress.