Here are a few suggestions that could help prevent depressed teens from feeling like there is no solution:
- Improve access to mental health resources in schools. Having counselors, support groups, or hotlines available can give teens outlets to discuss what they're feeling and learn coping strategies.
- Educate parents, teachers and students about the signs of depression and how to seek help. Many teens may not recognize that what they're experiencing is depression. Raising awareness could help more people get the support they need.
- Promote social emotional learning programs. Teaching skills like stress management, communication and problem-solving can help teens deal with difficult emotions in a healthy way.
- Check in regularly with students. Simple