Depression and Teens:
How to Get Help for Your Teen
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What should I do if I think my teen is depressed?
If you think your teen may be depressed, ask her if she has been feeling down, depressed, sad, irritable or hopeless. It is important to let her know that you noticed that she seems unhappy, and that you care. It is very important to consult a professional if your teen shows feelings or behavior that are of concern such as depression for more than a short time, drinking or using drugs, lack of appetite, decline in grades, increased social isolation, increased irritability, risky behavior, or self-harm.
Any of the following professionals should be able to provide treatment or help you get treatment for your teenager.
What if my teenager says she is thinking about hurting herself?
Anyone who has thoughts or feelings about hurting themselves should be taken seriously and should get professional help immediately. Suicide is the third leading cause of death in teens and young adults, but can often be prevented with urgent treatment.
It is important to know that many people, teenagers included, who feel suicidal tell someone before they kill themselves or make an attempt to kill themselves.
Teenagers may injure themselves by cutting without intending to kill themselves. However, self-injury is serious and should always be taken as a sign that the teen is feeling overwhelmed and cannot cope with her feelings. If a teen is harming herself, she needs immediate intervention.
If your teen is harming herself or says she thinks about killing herself, she needs to be evaluated by a mental health professional immediately! If you are unable to obtain urgent care from a mental health provider, take your teen to the nearest emergency room or call 911. |
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Updated: 07/03/06
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