According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression is one of America’s most common mental disorders. It is estimated that around 16 million adults in the U.S. have had at least one major depressive episode in a year. For parents, this can be concerning news, especially if you think your child or adolescent may be suffering from depression. If you’re grappling with this, know that many treatment options are available.
One of these options is psychotherapy, which is also known as talk therapy. At HillsidesCares, we have a psychotherapy program for teens. This program can help your child or adolescent understand and work through their depression. To learn more about our programs and how we can help your family, HillsidesCares, call us at 323.641.4842.
How Does Depression Affect Teens?
Depression is more than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch. It’s an actual medical condition that can interfere with a person’s ability to function in everyday life. Depression is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, and life events. Depression is common in teens, and according to the National Institute of Mental Health, about three million American teenagers suffer from some form of depression. Symptoms of depression can include:
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in appetite
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
If you notice any of these changes in your teen, it’s essential to seek help. There are many effective treatments for depression, so there’s no reason why your teen should continue to experience these symptoms.
Depression Treatment for Teens
There are many different treatment options available for depression. The most effective treatment plan will be tailored to your teen’s needs. There are some common treatment options for depression.
Psychotherapy
Also known as talk therapy, this is a process in which your teen will meet with a therapist to discuss their depression. The therapist will help your teen identify and work through the thoughts and emotions that are contributing to their depression.
Medication
Depression can be caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Medication can help to correct this imbalance and relieve depression symptoms.
Exercise
Exercise can be an effective treatment for depression. It can help to improve mood, increase energy levels, and improve sleep.
Diet
Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoiding processed foods can help improve mood and energy levels. If you believe your teen is showing signs of depression, don’t hesitate to get help. HillsidesCares is here to support you and your family.
What Is Psychotherapy for Depression?
Psychotherapy is a treatment for depression that involves talking with a trained mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor. Psychotherapy aims to help clients understand and work through their depression to feel better.
There are many types of psychotherapy, and the type that HillsidesCares uses will depend on the client’s needs and preferences. Some common types of psychotherapy used to treat depression include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – CBT focuses on helping clients change the negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with their depression.
- Interpersonal therapy (IPT) – IPT focuses on improving clients’ relationships and communication skills.
- Psychodynamic therapy – Psychodynamic therapy focuses on helping clients understand and work through the emotions and experiences that may be contributing to their depression
Regardless of the type of psychotherapy the client receives, it is important to remember that making life changes takes time and effort. However, with a therapist’s support, clients learn how to manage their depression and live a fulfilling life.
Learn More about Depression Treatment Options at HillsidesCares
HillsidesCares offers various services to help teens and their families manage depression. All of our programs and services involve evidence-based practices. This means that they have been proven to be effective through research. Additionally, we provide treatment to young kids and teenagers from ages six to 17 years old. HillsidesCares is LGBTQ+ friendly. Our main goal is to provide youths with a place to receive the treatment and support that meets their individual needs. Contact us at 323.641.4842, and we would be delighted to talk to you further or to schedule a time when your family can tour the campus.