Depression is the most common mental health problem in the United States. Each year it affects 17 million people of all age groups, races, and economic backgrounds. As many as 1 in every 33 children may have depression; in teens, that number may be as high as 1 in 8.
So it's wise for parents and caregivers to learn about depression and how to help if your child, or a child you know, seems depressed. Depression isn't just bad moods and occasional melancholy.It's not just feeling down or sad, either.
These feelings are normal in kids, especially during the teen years. Even when major disappointments and setbacks make people feel sad and angry; the negative feelings usually lessen with time.
But when a depressive state, or mood, lingers for a long time; weeks, months, or even longer and limits a person's ability to function normally, it can be diagnosed as depression. Types of depression include: major depression, dysthymia, adjustment disorder with depressed mood, seasonal affective disorder, and bipolar disorder or manic depression.
All of these can affect kids and teenagers. One thing I have come to realize is if your teen is struggling with any medical issue you must be on your “A” game in other areas. Troubled teens whether from mood disorders or other medical issues can take a toll on a marriage.
To be perfectly honest with you, it is also a struggle for us. This is what my wife, DeeLynn, has to say about this subject. “Although caring for a teen with bipolar disorder is a struggle, the best thing I can do is be more educated on the subject. Not knowing what my child is going through is tough on both me and her.
Suffering from depression myself, I can let myself get into a state of agitation and anger over the behaviors my child exhibits. But, by knowing what to expect from her, I can get a better grasp of what behaviors are that of a normal teen and which are part of her disorder.
This also puts a strain on our marriage, because at times I try to excuse some of the “normal behaviors” on her disorder. It helps if both parents are educated so they can be a team and help each other through the hard times”. Now, let’s mention the important part. The important part is the supportive husband/father, to be there when the teen in your life needs you to be.
To also be there for the spouse that stresses over that teen on top of the bills or other issues. Sure the stress of life can be tough, and then add the stress of a troubled teen who is also dealing with an unexplained medical issue. Add that all up and tempers flare, sadness or confusion can occur not to mention fear of not knowing what the medical issue is.
Children, especially teens, often have stress in their lives. Whether caused by the loss of a friend or loved one, a recent move, being teased or bullied, difficulties at home, or problems at school, childhood stress can lead to behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, headaches, drug use, and insomnia, among many other symptoms and medical problems.
So should a teen struggling with medical issues dominate your marriage, no. But you need to band together and support each other or you might find yourself distracted from the real issue.
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