Printer FriendlyDepression and Teens:
How to Get Help for Your Teen
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What should I do if I think my teen is depressed?
If you think your teen may be depressed, ask him. Has he been feeling down, depressed, sad, irritable or hopeless? It's important to let him know that you noticed that he seems unhappy, and that you care. It's very important to consult a professional if your teen shows feelings or behaviors of concern, such as depression for more than a short time, drinking or using drugs, lack of appetite, decline in grades, increased social isolation, increased irritability, risky behavior, or self-harm.
Any of the following professionals should be able to provide treatment or help you get treatment for your teenager.
- A mental health professional such as a social worker, psychologist, or psychiatrist
- A health care provider. Your son’s health care team likely can be helpful with making a referral to a mental health provider. Additionally, they may suggest that your teen be seen for a check-up to rule out any physical cause for her change in his mood, etc.
- A school counselor
- A clergy person
Your health insurance company has lists of mental health providers in your community who accept your insurance. There is often a phone number on the back of your insurance card for mental health or behavioral health services. This number can be used for general questions, referrals and emergencies. By law, all medical insurance policies have to include coverage for mental health care; both out-patient and in-patient.
What if my son says he is thinking about hurting himself?
Anyone who has thoughts or feelings about hurting themselves should be taken seriously and should get professional help immediately. Suicide is the third leading cause of death in teens and young adults, but can usually be prevented with urgent treatment.
It's important to know that many people who feel suicidal (teenagers included) will usually tell someone before they kill themselves, or make an attempt to kill themselves.
Teenagers may injure themselves by cutting, with drugs or alcohol, or with reckless driving without intending to kill themselves. However, self-injury is serious and should always be taken as a sign that the teen is feeling overwhelmed and cannot cope with his feelings. If a teen is harming himself, he needs immediate intervention.
If your son is harming himself, or says he thinks about killing himself, he needs to be evaluated by a mental health professional immediately. If you are unable to obtain urgent care from a mental health provider, take him to the nearest emergency room or call 911.
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Updated: 6/24/2010
