1. See a Professional for Accurate Diagnosis
The first and most important way to cope with depression is to get an accurate diagnosis from a qualified professional. Qualified professionals are those who specialize in mental health, such as psychiatrists, clinical psychologists and pediatricians with specialized training in child psychiatry. An accurate diagnosis is imperative because the wrong medication can worsen the depression or cause rapid mood cycling in those suffering from bipolar disorder who are misdiagnosed with clinical depression. An increased rate of teenage suicide was recently linked with popular antidepressant medications, but it may be that some of these teenagers were misdiagnosed with unipolar depression when actually suffering from bipolar disorder.
Teenage depression often manifests in behaviors such as decreased academic performance, alcohol and/or drug use, extreme dieting, social withdrawal, lack of interest in usual activities or defiant behaviors. An accurate diagnosis will yield an effective treatment plan, which usually includes both antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. Parents should closely monitor their teenager's compliance with medication regimen and also note possible side effects from medications. It is also important to watch for any unhealthy coping habits such as alcohol or substance use, extreme dieting or other self-destructive behaviors.
2. Start Psychotherapy
Research has shown that depression is best treated by using a combination of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the gold standard of treatment for many types of depression and has been shown to be effective in producing long term improvements in mood. This type of therapy systematically identifies and modifies irrational thoughts to improve mood and alter unhealthy behaviors. A clinical or counseling psychologist holds a doctoral degree in psychology and is best trained to conduct CBT. Experienced master's level counselors can also be highly skilled in CBT.
In some cases of teenage depression, family therapy can be enormously helpful for identifying dysfunctional family dynamics which fuel the depression. Through identifying and altering family dynamics, communication can improve and support the teenager's recovery.
3. Have Some Fun
Many teenagers are bombarded with hormonal changes, enormous peer pressures, increased academic workloads and stressors attendant to dysfunctional family dynamics. Chronic stress is linked with the onset of depression, and many teenagers need to learn healthy coping skills.
These are best taught by parent modeling of exercise, sports, hobbies and learning new skills together. Teenagers are often turned off by parental requests to "talk about it." The best way for a parent to connect with a teen is to enjoy an activity together. Teens are more likely to chat and share emotions while engaged in a positive activity with parents. Try playing a sport together, fishing, baking or taking a walk. While your teen may protest initially, your wish to spend time together will be heard.
