Overcoming Teen Depression

Discusses the signs and symptoms of depression in teenagers, explains current medical approaches to treatment, and explores related issues, including substance abuse and medical and psychiatric disorders.

Despite what you might have been told, the feelings of sadness and hopelessness you may be struggling with are probably not "just a phase" or "something you'll grow out of." As many as 20 percent of people your age have symptoms of serious depression, yet many teens and even many adults don't recognize the signs. Only half of depressed teens get the help they need to overcome these feelings. If you're feeling depressed, this workbook offers things you can do, both on your own and with a counselor, to feel better.

Teen depression is on the rise in North America. According to the statistics, one teen in every high school classroom is probably suffering from a major depression. These teens come from all social, economic and cultural backgrounds - from anyone's family or community. Parents often agonize over this problem, but do nothing, hoping for the best and allowing the teenager time and space to work out his or her own problems. They try to give extra love, support and attention, but they can't help worrying. Dr. Miriam Kaufman gives the concerned parent a thorough overview of the most up-to-date medical knowledge. Drawing on her own experience and that of other doctors and psychologists who work with teenagers, and offering many illustrative case histories, the author explains what teen depression is and how it can be overcome. Medical and psychiatric conditions, gender and sexuality differences, substance abuse, anxiety, poverty and suicide, as well as the social and practical aspects of life with a depressed teen are discussed. Medical approaches, including therapy and drug treatment, are covered in detail. An entire chapter is dedicated to alternative treatments. And in a broad-ranging question-and-answer section, Dr. Kaufman addresses many of the specific concerns of parents, and of teenagers themselves. This comprehensive look at teen depression is sure to be helpful not only to teens and parents, but to teachers, guidance counselors and all those who work with adolescents.

"The Real Guide to Teenage Depression" is a thorough research book that expands practical parenting facts. As well as current resources. This book offers step by step practical solutions for teens who struggle with bullying. Special sections focus on Cyber harassment and depression in LGBTQIA teens. Further educate you about the teen depression as a whole.

Depression is one of the most common mental health problems and is estimated to affect around 15% of people at some point during their life. For many people depression is a life-long disorder which starts during the teenage years –around 10% of teenagers are estimated to have an episode of depression and many more experience persistent low mood. This accessible companion book to Am I Depressed and What Can I do About it? follows essentially the same structure and makes use of the same case studies, but looks at the issues from the parents’ point of view, and incorporates additional strategies for parents. From ‘what to look out for’, through what the evidence says about different forms of treatment, to family communication and relapse prevention. Each section includes troubleshooting boxes.

Description: Depression and related illnesses threaten to wreck the lives of many teens and their families. Suicide driven by these illnesses is one of the top killers of these young people. How do teens become depressed? What does depression feel like? How can we identify it? What helps depressed teens? What hurts them? How do families cope with teen depression? In A Relentless Hope Gary Nelson uses his experience as a pastor and pastoral counselor to guide the reader through an exploration of these and many other questions about teen depression. Nelson has worked with many teens over the years offering help to those who find themselves confronted by this potentially devastating attacker. The author also uses the story of his own son's journey through depression to weave together insights into the spiritual, emotional, cognitive, biological, and relational dimensions of teen depression. Through careful analysis, candid self-revelation, practical advice, and even humor, this pastor, counselor, and father reminds us that God's light of healing can shine through the darkness of depression and offer hope. A Relentless Hope is written for teens, parents, teachers, pastors, and any who walk with the afflicted through this valley of the shadow of death. Endorsements: ""Whether you are a youth struggling with depression, a family member of a depressed teen, or a pastor, counselor or teacher providing support and help in such circumstances, this book is a must read as the most informative and helpful volume available on the subject."" --Merle R. Jordan Professor of Pastoral Psychology Emeritus, Boston University School of Theology ""This story of a family is an incredible gift of honest reflection. So many families deal with the issue of teen depression. . . As the dean of a theological school I am aware of the numbers of youth that my students deal with who are in this book. Depression, self-medication with alcohol and drugs, self doubt and even considerations of suicide as an answer--all are in our communities and probably in even a small church. This book is about an attitude that avoids denial, attempts to keep a sense of humor, and believes in the miracle of life. Thank you, Tom, for allowing your story to be told."" --Maxine Clarke Beach, Vice President and Dean, Drew Theological School This is a story of amazing grace! I love the challenge Gary gave the reader throughout the book: ""Never give up on loving!"" I was reminded in a very tangible way of the limitless capacity of God who loves us the same way--He never stops! What an incredible mantra for all of us: ""Never give up on loving. . . . Never!"" I wonder how different our world would be if we practiced this command? --Rev. Dale Seley, Pastor Downtown Baptist Church, Alexandria, Virginia About the Contributor(s): Gary E. Nelson, DMin, is a United Methodist minister who for thirty years has worked with teens and their families as a local church pastor and as a pastoral counselor. He currently pastors a church in West Virginia.

One in eight high school students is depressed. But depression in teenagers can be deceptive, and authorities estimate that a huge number of depressed teens are undiagnosed. Adults may mistake symptoms as "typical" teen angst, anger, or anxiety. Or the teen may mask the symptoms with high-energy activity. For parents who suspect their teen is depressed, the system often fails the family. Insurance coverage for treatment ends too soon, there's a months-long wait to see an adolescent therapist, or long-term follow-up is insufficient. This means parents must take charge of their child's health to reinforce, extend, and monitor treatment and its aftermath. The good news is they can do it—because parents know their child best. Although a medical doctor, Dr. Berlinger initially missed the signs of his own son's depression. By combining his parental love with his scientific skills, he developed a set of techniques to lead his son out of depression. Now he shares his 10 Parental Partnering Strategies to help parents rescue their teen from depression—based on his own experiences, nearly 100 interviews with parents of depressed teens, and interviews with mental health professionals. Increasingly, doctors are asking parents to partner with them to help children get healthy and stay healthy. Partnering has been proven effective in the treatment of other serious emotional illnesses such as anorexia nervosa. Parents can use Dr. Berlinger's strategies to help distinguish depression from moodiness; be alert to suicide risk; monitor medication effectiveness; help the teen combat negative thinking; organize activities to offset depression; and spot signs of relapse during tense times in their child's life, including exams, relationship breakups, or starting college or a job. Both a family survival story and a practical guide, this book affirms parents' unique power to help teens overcome depression.

"Teenage Depression: 5 Practical Ways to Thrive during Adolescence" is a comprehensive guide designed by a teenager- for teenagers, to assist confused teenagers and young adults who are seeking to embark on a journey of self-improvement but are unsure where to begin or have previously encountered ineffective methods. This concise book offers actionable insights and direct advice on common challenges faced during adolescence, including Overthinking, Social Anxiety, Substance Addiction, Social Media Addiction, and Procrastination. Serving as an initial step in the path towards personal growth, this resource aims to equip and empower young individuals and those in early adulthood. Within the pages of this book, you will discover: 1) An exploration of the causes of Overthinking and techniques to regain control over your thoughts. 2) A candid examination of the reality of Social Media addiction. 3) A permanent solution for overcoming Substance Addictions. 4) Strategies for overcoming Social Anxiety rather than merely coping with it. 5) Guidance on maintaining consistency during challenging times. If you are prepared to embark on a transformative journey towards overcoming depression, then "Teenage Depression: 5 Practical Ways to Thrive during Adolescence" is the ideal resource for you.