Can you tell us about some of the warning signs of depression?
Caroline Miller, of the Child Mind Institute, wrote an article that accurately describes adolescent depressive symptoms:
– Unusual sadness or irritability, persisting even when circumstances change;
– Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed; reduced feelings of anticipation;
– Changes in weight;
– Shifts in sleep patterns;
– Sluggishness;
– Harsh self-assessment (“I’m ugly. I’m no good. I’ll never make friends.”);
– Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness;
– Thoughts of or attempts at suicide.
These can often be signs of teenage angst, could they not?
Yes, there could be times when teens exhibit parts of these behaviors. However, the bouts are far less frequent. Depression signs tend to continue for longer periods of time.
Once these patterns are visible, what should parents do?
Well, the first thing is to continue to speak life into your child, to let them know that they are still important and needed in this world. Secondly, you should find your child a therapist or counselor that they connect to.
To learn more about Gerald and the MJG Movement, visit www.mjgmovement.wixsite.com/elizabethgerald.
For help, contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255.
