Quick Links: Teen Depression Quiz | Parent's Guide to Teen Depression | Troubled Teens
When a teen is evaluated for depression, options and settings for professional treatment will be suggested based on your teens' specific needs, personality and availability and may include one or more of the following:
Individual therapy- helps a depressed teen express and understand their feelings, learn about depression and find improved ways to cope. There are several effective approaches, a common method utilized in treating depression is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) which identifies and challenges negative and problematic beliefs and behaviors. Individual therapy is most effective when the teen feels a positive connection and rapport with the therapist, which may take time to develop.
Group therapy- is perceived by some teens as less threatening since the focus is not exclusively on them. The advantages of this approach are the opportunity to socialize with others and the reassurance that a teen is not alone in dealing with the pain of depression. These specialized groups are located by contacting therapists who treat teens, and may be offered through community organizations focused on helping teenagers.
Family therapy- is often recommended to help depressed teens and their families. This type of therapy is designed to help family members cope better, improve communication, answer questions about depression, and help the family make adjustments as the teen improves and makes changes.
Medication therapy- numerous anti-depressant medications are available, some specifically targeted to teens. The use of medication has to be weighed against the risks, which is usually done most effectively by working with a psychiatrist who specializes in treating teens. Medications are often utilized in cases of more severe depression and in the presence of suicidal or distorted thoughts.
Expressive therapies- creatively encourage teens to understand and convey what they are thinking and feeling in ways that other forms of therapy often don't tap into, by utilizing art, music, writing, dance or drama techniques. This type of therapy may be helpful for teens who have difficulty with verbal communication.
Depression impacts each teen differently. What works for one teen may not work for another- continue to explore options until you find the ones that do help your teen to feel and function better.
Quick Links: Teen Depression Quiz | Parent's Guide to Teen Depression | Troubled Teens