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First, your child has to know he or she is not alone, because there is help out there should they be willing and ready to ask for it. And if you know someone who you think is depressive, you can help them by listening. You could also try encouraging your friend to ask a parent or responsible adult about treatment options. If your friend does not ask for help soon, you should talk to an adult you trust and respect, especially if your friend mentions suicide. Most people who are depressive do not, in fact, commit suicide, but depression increases the risk of suicide attempts. Suicidal thoughts, remarks, or attempts must always be taken seriously.
Why do people get depressive?
Sometimes people suffer from depression caused by external influences, such as a divorce in the family, major financial problem, or death of a loved one. In addition, a messed up domestic situation, or breaking up with a boyfriend or girlfriend, could also be the reason.
Teenagers often react to the pain of depression by getting into trouble with alcohol, drugs, or sex, and by breaking relations with family or friends. This is another reason why it is important to get treatment for depression and deal with it promptly, before it leads to other trouble.
Myths and facts about depression
Myths about depression often separate people from the effective treatments now available. Some of the most common myths are listed below, followed by debunking facts.
Myth: It is normal for teenagers to be moody; they do not suffer from real depression.
Fact: Depression can affect people of any age and any race, ethnic, or economic group, so each mood change should be monitored.
Myth: Teens who claim to be depressive are weak and just need to pull themselves together; there is nothing anyone else can do to help.
Fact: Depression is not a weakness, but a serious health disorder, and both young people and adults need professional treatment. A trained therapist or counselor can help them learn more positive ways to think about themselves, change their behavior, and cope with problems. The physician can prescribe medications to help relieve the symptoms; for many people, a combination of psychotherapy and medication is beneficial.
Myth: Talking about depression only makes it worse; it should be a less popular topic.
Fact: Talking through feelings may help a friend recognize the need for professional help, so by showing friendship and concern and giving uncritical support, you can encourage your friend to talk to his or her parents or another trusted adult, which can lead to treatment. If your friend is reluctant to ask for help, you can talk to an adult on their behalf, because that is what a real friend will do.
Myth: Telling an adult that a friend might be depressive is a betrayal of trust, because if someone wants help, he or she will ask for it.
Fact: Depression, which saps energy and self-esteem, interferes with a person’s ability to get desire or look for help, and many parents may not understand the seriousness of depression. It is an act of true friendship to share your concerns with a school guidance counselor, a favorite teacher, your own parents, or another trusted adult.