It may be necessary for you to learn how to parent a depressed child if your child is exhibiting signs or symptoms that he or she is suffering from depression. There are several symptoms that may indicate that your child is depressed. They may act angry or irritable, become socially withdrawn or experience changes in sleep or eating habits. They may also suffer from headaches or other physical ailments that are not responding to treatments. http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-children

Depression is an intense feeling of hopelessness, sadness or worthlessness. This emotionally distressing feeling may last for several days or weeks and prevent the person who is suffering from interacting or functioning normally. Clinical depression is treatable with therapy or medication.http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-overview-facts Because clinical depression can manifest itself in a variety of symptoms, it may be difficult to diagnose. A physician or mental health professional may perform a physical examination and a thorough interview to diagnose your child properly.http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-diagnosis

The first thing that you should do as a parent is to make time to talk with your child. During this conversation you can encourage them to share their feelings with you and empathize with their concerns. It is important for you to let them know that you are here to support them. You must be involved with your child and be aware of the experiences that affect their lives. Encourage them to talk with you about what is happening at school, with their friends and within the home. Setting aside time for quality interaction can help improve their self-esteem and make them feel like they are an important part of the family.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMJbn1-apcU

There may be times when you will need to seek the help of a mental health professional. If you child is exhibiting signs of depression, you may want to talk with them and ask if they would be interested in talking to a third party. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMJbn1-apcU

There are instances where professional help is necessary and should be sought with or without your child's interest, such as:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMJbn1-apcU

1. If your child is talking about suicide.
2. If your child is committing harmful acts towards themselves.
3. If your child's depression is having an impact on their daily life.
4. If you notice severe changes in your child's behavior or interaction with others.

After you have met with a mental health professional, you may find that you have several treatment options available for your child. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMJbn1-apcU

1. Medication - If you have met with a psychiatrist, he or she may recommend medication as a treatment option. The doctor can also help you to decide if this method of therapy is right for your child's individual needs.
2. Social and group therapy - There may be peer support groups that are designed to address some of the issues that are impacting your child's behavior. These groups may be a way for your child to see that they are not alone in how they are feeling.
3. Individual therapy - This will provide your child with one-on-one counseling with a licensed professional.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice. Please contact a doctor or mental health professional before using the information presented here.