Dealing with depression

It's normal for teenagers to feel 'up' one minute and 'down' the next. However, depression is an illness with specific symptoms that are not always recognised in young people.

Teenagers can feel depressed for all sorts of reasons – from having moods and feeling a bit 'down', to feeling overwhelming sadness and hopelessness. Some will even feel suicidal.

It may be difficult to communicate and help your teenager if they are depressed. But DON'T ignore their feelings or leave them to cope alone. They need to know you care and want to help.

Helpful tips

• Stay calm and think about what is happening before you react.
• Take your teenager's feelings seriously, show love and concern.
• Get advice on how to best handle the situation – from family, friends or a professional such as a doctor, school counsellor or helpline.
• Encourage your teenager to seek help and talk with others.
• When they want to talk with you – listen.
• Encourage them to do things they enjoy.