The teenage years can be a challenging stage in life for many. Hormonal changes, school pressures, after-school activities, and social expectations can leave many teens feeling the weight of the world on their shoulders. These pressures can lead to depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns. In a survey conducted by the CDC in 2023, about 40% of participating teens reported persistent feelings of depression, and about 20% reported considering suicide. Knowing how to recognize the signs and how to help is crucial for guiding your teenager with depression toward improving their mental health.
Recognizing the Signs of Depression
Teens and children may often show shifts in their behavior, such as emotional outbursts over insignificant situations, acting out of character, isolation, anxiety, worry, or developing eating disorders. These can be some signs of depression or a mental health condition, though many might only show a few symptoms.
How to Help
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- Lend a listening ear. Let them speak from a place where they can truly be themselves and express their feelings. Creating a judgment-free zone will allow them to open up, helping you better understand what they are going through. Build trust by validating their feelings and showing them that you are here to help them navigate this challenging time together.
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- Educate yourself on the struggles teens might face. Although you have already gone through your own teenage years, teens face very different challenges today. Try learning about issues like social media and isolation that affect today’s teens.
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- Check on your teen and offer support. Encourage professional help, like talk therapy or consulting a medical professional. Your teen might not feel comfortable sharing every detail with you, but helping them find a therapist could be beneficial.
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- Stay patient and continue supporting your teen. Healing takes time, and offering ongoing support can make a significant difference.
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Ketamine Therapy
If you’re struggling to find solutions for your teenager with depression or suspect that things are worsening, ketamine therapy could offer the relief they need. According to the National Library of Medicine, ketamine therapy has been proven to be safe and effective for patients aged 12 months or older.
Contact VIP Ketamine
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Our team at VIP Ketamine is here to help you and your teen during this challenging time. If you or someone you know is struggling trauma, ketamine infusion therapy could provide the relief you are looking for. Want to explore if ketamine is the right approach for your well-being? Get in touch with our team at VIP Ketamine by filling out the form below.