As a parent, it’s important to start conversations with your teenager about teen issues, including depression and anxiety. Giving them their space and letting them deal with issues on their own could lead them to believe that you don’t care. Talking to your teen about depression and anxiety can be difficult, especially since adolescence is already an emotional time. Here are some points to consider when talking to your teen about depression and anxiety.

• Use an open statement rather than accusing them. For example, say something like “I am really concerned that…”
• Let them know that nothing is wrong with them and that they are not in trouble
• Be honest
• Understand how depression and anxiety is affecting your teen so that you don’t scold them for things such as low grades
• Create open lines of communication so that you teen feels as though they can talk to you about issues

If you’re wondering whether your teen might be suffering from anxiety or depression, look for these warning signs.

• Substance abuse
• Difficulty focusing
• Isolation from friends and family
• Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
• Suicidal thoughts
• Drop in school performance
• Sleeping issues
• Change in eating habits

 

Click HERE to learn more about teen depression and anxiety on Miami Herald.