Teens Don't Get Help Because of Us

"Teens with untreated depression more often have social and academic problems, become parents prematurely, abuse drugs and alcohol and suffer adult depression and suicide."

Parents, read that quote again, it's an important one. I took it directly from a report that discusses current research about teens and depression. Now, consider this. Teens are very worried about what their friends would think if they got help for depression. They are also very concerned about what their families will think. And if you aren't supportive and can't help them get to treatment, they won't get help. Leading to the problems discussed above.

My best advice is that if your teen is saying he or she is depressed - get your teen help, and quickly. Maybe it is a temporary funk, or maybe it really isn't depression - but maybe it is. What do you have to lose by taking your child to a counselor or therapist? The benefits almost always outweigh the risks.