As teens transition into adulthood, they begin to assert their independence. While mood swings are to be expected in adolescents, understanding the difference between the mood swings and teen depression protects teens from potential self-harm and potential substance abuse problems. Here are five tips to help teens like Paris Jackson recover.
1. Listen to her. Paris Jackson should have a family member that she can personally connect with on a one-on-one basis. The environment should be relaxed and non-judgmental. Refraining from asking a lot of questions is one way to assure that the teen has the right environment to share her experiences. In the presence of a therapist, this could be beneficial in helping her navigate these psychological challenges.
2. She can benefit from counseling. A treatment approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy and an antidepressant can help her make it through her depression. Since female teens are more likely to have repeated episodes of depression, she should have counseling. The therapy should be provided to her as long as her therapist recommends it.
3. Removing all medications from her environment can make her safe. This is important while she undergoes treatment. Medication should be properly secured. Medications and the wrong mood can make for a dangerous recipe as Jackson receives treatment. According to research, suicide is the leading cause of death in teens between the ages of 10 and 24.
4. She should always be surrounded by close friends and family. Having made her first suicide attempt, family members should make sure that she has friends and family with her around the clock as she seeks counseling. Teens shouldn’t be left alone in a state of crisis, especially if substance abuse problems are a part of her family history.
5. Family members should watch how they communicate with her. In her delicate state, criticism can be a trigger for her to fall into another episode. Instead, the emphasis should be placed on listening to the teen and encouraging the teen to be open in communicating with her. She has already voiced feelings of worthlessness and frequently engaged in self-criticism.
6. Parents with teen daughters should take teen depression seriously and follow the story. Her compelling story could be used to launch a discussion with any young teen who may be experiencing depression symptoms. Females are more likely to commit suicide than their male counterparts. If the family is committed to helping Paris Jackson heal, they should take her suicide attempt as a warning sign that she is in need of therapy. Keeping her in a safe, loving, supportive environment will ensure that she heals.
