Youth

Depression does not affect only adults. The pressures of school and growing up can be overwhelming and difficult for children to cope with successfully.  Depression in children can lead to loss of appetite, aches and pains, and lack of energy.

Every child misbehaves from time to time. This is always distressing to us as parents because we would all like to be perfect parents of perfect children! There are many reasons for a child’s misbehaviour, and many ways for parents to help the child improve.

Although separation and divorce can be the most painful events a family may ever experience, they may come as a welcome relief after a period of tension and conflict in a troubled marriage. However, the period of adjustment is a painful one too. As a parent, you must deal not only with your own confusion and pain but also the confusion and pain of your children. You will also worry about what the break-up will mean for their futures, how they will cope, and if they will still love you.

Self-esteem is the value we place on ourselves. It is the feeling we have about all the things we see ourselves to be. It is the knowledge that we are lovable, we are capable, and we are unique. Both adults and children benefit from good relationships, experiences and positive thinking. Many of the steps necessary for building a child’s self-esteem will also help you in developing and maintaining your own.

Something is wrong with your child. You can’t put your finger on it, but she is acting strangely. Withdrawn and sullen, she won’t get out of bed. She mopes around all day refusing even to take a shower or get dressed; this is really odd considering she used to be so picky about the way she looked. Sometimes she lashes out for no apparent reason, other times she walks around showing no emotion. Your gut is telling you that things are not right but your head refuses to believe this is anything but typical teenage behaviour.

Some teens are troubled by frequent intense and painful emotions. While some are able to deal with these feelings, others react differently to their problems because they have not been taught ways to handle their emotions effectively. They are unable to find the words and the buildup of feelings makes it difficult for them to think clearly. Some teens release this bottleneck by cutting or burning or otherwise hurting themselves. Self injury provides immediate relief, but this is a short-term solution with serious consequences.

Adolescence is a time of dramatic change. The journey from child to adult can be complex and challenging. Young people often feel tremendous pressure to succeed at school, at home and in social groups. At the same time, they may lack the life experience that lets them know that difficult situations will not last forever. Mental health problems commonly associated with adults, such as depression, also affect young people. Any one of these factors, or a combination, may become such a source of pain that they seek relief in suicide.