Helping Your Teenager Beat Depression: A Problem-Solving Approach for Families

Rating:
Summary: Helping Teens and their Families Cope with Depression
Review: Coping with a depressed teen is difficult for many parents to accept, but not dealing with it can lead to behavioral problems, the need for therapy or hospitalization - even the chilling but all-too-common outcome of suicide. Although they rarely acknowledge it, teens do greatly depend on their parents for support. Studies show that when parents are closely involved during therapy and professional treatment the results improve dramatically. This book supplies valuable information and advice, and outlines a concise, problem-solving plan of action that could make a big difference in kids' lives. The authors begin by explaining the difference between sadness and depression, relating real-life case studies of various types of depression, and including exercises and check lists to help readers make determinations and record progress. They continually stress the importance of family interaction and communication, describing the "family circle" concept and suggesting how to develop healthy patterns. Always stressing that families need to "label" and discuss depression, and that is nothing to be ashamed of, the authors give suggestions for coping with challenges that can occur at school and with friends. They also offer tips on medications and their affects, and how to deal with crises that may arise during treatment. This is an important, helpful book, especially in these fast-paced and confusing times. While debates rage about treatments and the safety of new anti-depressant drugs, this book stands out as a compassionate, valuable resource for parents and kids - some of whom are battling to survive.