Your child has fallen into depression, and you have no idea how to cure them of this illness once and for all. Parenting children who are depressed is a very serious problem. But no worries, we have got your back, and you have indeed landed at the right blog.
According to a survey, in 2020, almost 9% of children were struggling with anxiety or depression, which accounts for 213,000 children in Illinois. This indicates that depression in children is becoming a common trend these days and is by far one of the most disturbing conditions a person can experience.
What Is Depression?
Life hits hard sometimes. We all know that feeling when everything feels heavy and you just want to crawl back into bed. That’s normal. That’s human.
But depression? That’s different.
It’s when the sadness doesn’t lift after a few days or weeks. When your brain starts telling you lies. You’re worthless. Nothing will ever get better, and the people you love would be better off without you. Moreover, getting out of bed feels like climbing a mountain, and even tiny decisions become overwhelming.
Causes Of Depression In Children
Depression may occur for a variety of reasons. Certain children are more prone to this condition if their relatives have experienced depression.
Some kids experience stressful situations. Some have experienced trauma, loss, or difficulties. Some suffer from severe medical conditions. Depression may arise from sadness, grief, and more screen time.
Children’s depression can be prevented with extra support during and after difficult moments. However, some children may fall prey to depression even though they have strong connections with family and parents. They can recover, feel better, and resume enjoying life with the aid of therapy.
7 Tips to Support Your Child After Depression Diagnosis
Now, let’s explore how the residents in Oak Brook, Illinois, can help their children get rid of their depression from their nearest care center, Resilience Behavioral Health.
Seek Professional Help
See your child’s doctor to determine whether they are depressed. They have specific questionnaires and techniques for different age groups that might help children in treatment.
Since suicide is currently the leading cause of death for teenagers, many patients between the ages of 12 and 21 are screened for depression each year. The doctor may treat your child’s depression or recommend that your family seek treatment from a mental health professional. Professional therapists at Resilience Behavioral Health make sure to use different techniques that will help your children with depression.
Strong Connection
To create a stronger parent-child bond, you two can sign up for a gym together and do workout therapy that benefits their mental health. You can also plan a regular weekend activity or establish a special morning routine if your child is returning to school following a mental health crisis.
Since we are social creatures, being embraced and valued by others is one of our most fundamental needs. Your child needs to know that you love and accept them no matter what when they are depressed. While friends and peers hold significance, they are unable to offer unconditional love in the same manner as parents and guardians.
Be Kind To Them
Children are perpetually yearning for affection. Be kind to them and communicate with them. Developing a calm relationship with your child and then helping them behave better is often beneficial. Kids can feel proud of their improved performance instead of feeling bad about it. It also shows them that you’re proud of them.
Healthy Lifestyle
There are a number of factors that can affect the pace of treatment. Engage in some outdoor activity with your child, as it is necessary for a healthy human brain
Poor sleep can contribute to depressed moods. Therefore, with a dark room and no screens, you can help your child sleep well. Research suggests that a lack of sleep correlates with bad mood, so it is essential to eat and sleep healthily.
Educate Yourself About Depression
You should educate yourself first as a parent of a child experiencing depression. Understanding depression, its causes, and its treatments is essential. The internet has an abundance of information. Before seeking medical assistance, you can do some research online.
Online resources will assist you in determining the best plan of action. Check to see if your child is experiencing homesickness or environmental stress. What is the main issue that is bothering them? Is it school-related depression, or is your family broken?
Positive Environment
If you want your child to be free from depression, remove negativity from your home first. There are different stages of depression, and if you behave badly towards children, it can turn into panic attacks. Make a list of things you and your child can do. For depressed children, having a calm environment is crucial.
Help Children Express
It appears that every child has a unique mood. How well-behaved and expressive you are with your child will determine this. Your child won’t show it if they don’t feel at ease with you. It also means that you shouldn’t expect your child to be expressive if there are obstacles in your relationship or if there is a gulf between you and your child.
You should approach them as a parent and give them a gentle ear. Establish an environment with your child that allows them to speak freely and without fear to their parents
Final Words
In the words of Dr. Valente, “The first episode of treatment might paint the future of the rest of their life.”
Depression is not something to be ashamed of or ignored. However, for the residents of Illinois, there is hope. Without any visible harm, it affects your mental well-being and causes you to break inwardly. Hence, keep a close eye on your child if they are experiencing depression.
In Oak Brook, Illinois, Resilience Behavioral Health Center is one of the best options to cope with the feelings of depression and anxiety. Our trained staff starts by taking a detailed history of your child’s symptoms and creating an individualized plan for each patient. Our evidence-based therapies will help in reclaiming your kid’s childhood. From CBT to holistic practices, our goal is to empower you with strategies that will help in the long term.
Schedule a free consultation today! Contact us at (708) 775-3952 or visit our website for more information.
NEXT: Have you or your child faced trauma? EMDR Therapy is the most highly recommended solution.
