Advice Needed: How to help a teenage boy through his depression

[Pearl1990]

How to help a teenage boy through his depression?

[sahlady]

If it is legitimate depression I would talk to your pediatrician.

If he is just upset over a girl or a bad sports performance I would get him active in something that would take his mind off of things.  Volunteering, a different sport, a new hobby, etc.

[tyfry7496]

This.

Quoting sahlady:

If it is legitimate depression I would talk to your pediatrician.

If he is just upset over a girl or a bad sports performance I would get him active in something that would take his mind off of things.  Volunteering, a different sport, a new hobby, etc.

[wodntulk2kno1]

Talk to your doctor, they can help you

[amonkeymom]

I agree, I'd start with the pediatrician or family doctor and go from there.

[Barabell]

I agree.

Quoting sahlady:

If it is legitimate depression I would talk to your pediatrician.

If he is just upset over a girl or a bad sports performance I would get him active in something that would take his mind off of things.  Volunteering, a different sport, a new hobby, etc.

[blondie805]

1. Don't push for answers from him.

2. Be observant at all times. Watch for things like self-mutilation (cutting), giving all of the signs of suicide, obsession with death etc.

3. Therapy, Therapy, therapy.

4.If necessary, meds or a vitamin supplement like vitamin b, St. Johns Wort, HTP-5 or even vitamin c.

5. Finally, get therapy and support for you and the ones living with him.

[shamroc374]

I would definitely have him talk to his doctor or maybe ask the school guidance counselor to meet with him. He may tell them more than he is willing to tell you, and they are better trained to deal with it.

[bizzeemom2717]

If you think it's real clinical depression go to the doctor.

[MrsBLB]

How is he depressed?  How long has it been?

[AmyBK1972]

He can have an eval by his primary doc or a screening through your insurance behavioral health or nurse call center. The behavioral health hospitals all have intake/screeners who can give you an assessment of "how bad" his depression is or what the first steps to take are. Making sure your teen gets good sleep, proper nutrition & vitamins are essential first steps. Make sure you tell him often you love him & that he is important. trust your instincts! You know when something's wrong with your kid. He may just need to talk.

Good luck, hon!!!