A resource for parents and teachers about depression and young people
What is depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that affects one in seven Australians. Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities characterise depression, which goes beyond ordinary feelings of sadness or occasional "down" moods. It can significantly impact a person's life physically and mentally. With the proper support, depression is treatable.
Symptoms of depression, what does it look like?
Depression can present differently for everyone. Some common symptoms are:
- Persistent sadness
- Loss of interest
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Change in appetite or weight loss or gain
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Body aches and pains
- Withdrawing socially from family and friends
How you can support young people struggling with depression
As a parent, teacher or carer, there are many things you can do to support the young people in your lives.
- Learn about depression and seek professional help when needed.
- Talk about the feelings they’re experiencing.
- Avoid telling them to stop – they can’t control these feelings.
- Come up with strategies to cope with the feelings when they arise.
How to talk to young people about depression
When talking to young people about depression, choose a private moment where you can give them your full attention.
Explain what aspect of their behaviour that’s worrying you, followed by an open-ended question. For example, "I've noticed that you haven't been doing the things which you usually enjoy, can you tell me what might be happening?".
Be respectful of their feelings and offer compassion and validation. If they’re not open to talking the first time, try again at another time when they might be more receptive to talking.
Where to go to for more help
If your young person needs extra support, encourage them to speak to a health professional or reach out to any of the following organisations that can support you both.
