There are many ways to help your child. Depression is one of the most treatable mental illnesses. You can take steps at home to help your child feel better. By reading this you have already begun to help and support your child.
Ways to help your child with depression at home:
- Take your child's concerns seriously. Find a regular time to listen to their feelings without interruption (for example: car rides, an evening walk together, making a meal together).
- You don't always have to agree, but it's important to acknowledge their feelings and experiences as valid for them. You can start by summarizing and reflecting back what they’ve told you. Let them know they are not alone and that you are here to support them unconditionally.
- Keep the door open. Children and youth often pick their own times to share, so no matter how distant or irritable a child may seem, make sure they know you are ready to listen.
- Don't give up if at first they shut you out. Your child may feel embarrassed or it may be difficult for them to share their feelings.
- Don't expect too much. Depression often affects how a child performs at school and in other activities.
- Lean on others. Make sure you have your own support system so you are able to continue supporting your child.
- Help you child with self-care. Encourage your child to make positive changes but remember depression can make it hard for your child to get going. Start small:
- Sleep. Get enough quality sleep on a regular basis.
- Physical activity. Help your child find an activity to enjoy such as walking, swimming, yoga or going to the gym. Support them to move their body every day if possible. You may need to do the activity with them until they start to progress and become motivated.
- Nature. Research shows that being out in nature is an easy way to improve mood and symptoms of depression.
- Light. Being exposed to daylight for at least 30 minutes a day can improve mood, especially during the long winter months.
- Nutrition. Eating well can also help reduce the symptoms of depression.
- Seek professional support. Get help from a doctor or counsellor if your child is not getting better, has suicidal thoughts or appears to have a substance use problem.
Additional treatment options
The treatment team may include your child's pediatrician, family doctor, psychiatrist and a mental health professional. The treatment plan will depend upon how severe the depression is, what your child and family prefer, and what resources you are able to access. Some common treatments include psychotherapy and medication.
Psychotherapy (also called counselling or talk therapy) is often used alone if the depression is milder. It may be combined with medication for more moderate to severe depression. Psychotherapy treatment is usually 10-15 sessions and can be done one-on-one or in a group setting. There is very good evidence for the effectiveness of psychotherapy as a treatment for depression in youth. Some common types of therapy for depression include:
Medication (also called pharmacotherapy), specifically antidepressant medication, is often used to treat children and youth with moderate to severe depression alongside psychotherapy. Your doctor(s) will work with you and your child to pick the best medication for your child. These medications may help the child or youth start to feel better within a few weeks, but full benefits can take up to two to three months. It may take time to find the right dose or even the right medication for your child.