How can I help my 15 yr old with his depression?
Asked by PD
Answered
01/21/2023
Hello,
Helping teens help themselves can be a very common issue with 15 year olds and all ages. Start by making observations without judging him. "I notice you are spending more time in your room alone" or "You seem disappointed today. Notice small achievements like doing homework or taking an interest in the family pet. Monitor your teen's quality of sleep which impacts mood greatly. Does he have a television or iphone during bed time hours?
As for talking with strangers- it is hard for everyone at first! This takes practice and this why a therapist often builds rapport and trust with a new client first. Weekly therapist visits are ideal for becoming familiar with each other, building trust and momentum to open up and explore emotions in a safe environment. All relationships start out as strangers.
What is your teen doing while he is isolated? Sleeping, scrolling or staring at the ceiling? Staring in a mirror and feeling self loathing? Depression makes the smallest tasks difficult. Encourage him to increase his outdoor time, by going to the park or for a hike as a family. Do spontaneous things like play in the rain, watch a sunset or sunrise together. Your teen might choose to lay on the couch "watching" the family complete a puzzle or make dinner together but this is the beginning of participating. Look for a list online of teen therapeutic movies and invite him to watch one with you and make popcorn.
Has your family doctor or psychiatrist recommended medication? Complete blood lab studies as other medical conditions can mask as depression symptoms. Accepting the need for medication is a big step and taking the medication as directed and for the recommending length of time will likely make him feel better. Sometimes the medication regimen needs to be changed if not achieving the desired effect or causes negative side effects like nausea or weight gain.
Lastly, supervise and guide your teen. Encourage him to leave his door open to his room, if that becomes a power struggle make a compromise to knock and then go in.
