How To Help A Child With Depression
Children can suffer too from depression, don’t think it is just an illness you can get after adulthood! How you help a child with depression isn’t easy but it is something you shouldn’t take lightly!
Depression is a serious illness no matter what age you are, it doesn’t care who it affects. But when it strikes it is important that it is taken seriously, so many people can lose their life to depression!
Don’t Let Your Child Suffer Alone
It is a difficult topic to talk about, but it is so important! Your child’s mental health is just as important as the rest of their bodies!
When an adult has depression, it is difficult for them to talk about their feelings and what is going on in their head. Imagine what this must be like if a child is going through the same thoughts and feelings?
A child doesn’t know that what they are feeling is something they need help with, it is our job as their parent or guardian to notice the signs of depression and make sure action is taken!
Some Of The Symptoms
It isn’t easy keeping an eye out for the symptoms of depression in children because a lot of these are easily hidden from sight or are associated with normal adolescent behaviour!
- Feeling sad and withdrawing from what they used to do!
- Eating more food, even eating less food can be a sign too!
- A change in their sleeping habits. Not sleeping at night or napping during the day!
- Lack of energy or motivation to do anything!
- Not caring about their own future, what they want to do!
- A change in their behaviour at school!
- Thoughts about death and suicide!
What To Do If Your Child Is Depressed
If you suspect that your child is showing signs of depression, talking to them is the most important step. Show that you care and that you want to help them get better.
Seeking medical help is so important, you don’t want to go this route alone! Getting the help and support you need to help your child feel better is so important!
Provide a safe place for them where they feel they are able to talk if they want to or to just have the space they need to get better.
How To Support Your Child With Depression
It is important that you show your child that you understand that they aren’t feeling well. It is an illness and one that has many options for treatment!
Don’t be afraid of depression, it is not something that you can stop.
Don’t force your child to do things but a healthy diet and some exercise is a great way to encourage a positive attitude and has benefits to your health on the inside and can make you feel better too!
Depression is an illness and you must take it seriously, too many lives are lost to this illness. It is not something that you can brush aside and get on with life! You have to take action and take the time to get better!
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When I was in counselling I went through with my counsellor the process of Cognitive Behaviour technique! I found it very useful and helpful!
Taking Care Of Your Mental Health Is Important
Your mental health is just as important as the rest of your health. Don’t let the stigma of mental health get in your way for seeking help for your child.
It is difficult to talk to doctors about your own mental health, talking about how your child is feeling is difficult too. Some doctors aren’t great when it comes to dealing with mental health issues, other doctors are better!
Find one who you can talk to and discuss your concerns, your child’s health depends on it!
If you need more information or help check out this article: https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/therapy/how-do-i-find-a-therapist-near-me/
Therefore, if you have any concerns about depression with your child, seek the help they need. Give them the support they need and the understanding that you are there for them whilst they manage this illness!