Teen Depression, Conclusion (Alleviation and Prevention)

Family environment and friendships play a very important role in preventing teen depression. In scenarios that teen depression are already established, positive environments in both the home and peers are vital in easing-up or preventing teen depression to get worse.

Dr. Anne-Laura van Harmelen, of the Department of Psychiatry of the University of Cambridge studied almost 800 teenagers. Results of the study showed that difficult family or problems inside the family of teens at age 14, that include corporal punishments, sibling rivalry, lack of communication and emotional support, resulting from poor parenting skills, and grade school bullying, have resulted to symptoms of depression at age 17. She concludes that lowering stress levels in teenagers can prevent the development of teen depression.

Positive Parenting

1. Replace shame and punishment with positive reinforcement for good behavior. Notice a good behavior instead of magnifying the bad. Reward him for a job well done. Negativity can make an adolescent feel little and worthless.

2. Allow him to make mistakes. Overprotecting them by not allowing them to make their own decisions can be perceived as lack of faith in their abilities. This can make them feel less confident.

3. Don’t expect them to do exactly as you say all the time. Give them some space and breathing room.

4. Take time to listen to his concerns. Even if you think that the problem is “of no real bearing,” have a listening ear for it may feel something as very real to somebody who is growing up.

5. Always keep avenues of communication open even if your teen seems to want to hold back and withdraw. Have a meaningful walk in the park or the mall. Talk to each other at the dinner table. Do some sports with them. Jog and run with them.

6. Don’t be pushy. Avoid telling your teen what to do. Instead, listen closely to him for you may discover about the issues that might result to problems later on.

7. If your teen has close friends, invite them over to your house or let them join the family at the mall and for dinner. Make them feel comfortable so they may speak about their concerns.

8. If you feel overwhelmed and beaten-up, don’t give up on your teen. Seek qualified professional advice.

Momo challenge

Recent news on this form of cyber-bullying has been causing alarm worldwide. Whether a hoax or reality, always supervise and interact with your teens as regards use of technology. Encourage “technology breaks” for them to explore, play and socialize.