Teenage Depression: How to talk with a depressed teen

www.pcwhi.com Foster Cline MD (child psychiatrist) teaches us how to talk with kids who are struggling with difficult issues.

Here, Dr. Cline talks with Kyle, a teenager who is feeling hopeless about having cystic fibrosis.

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[MissPonderosa]

I'm sorry is this a set up? because it comes across as really fake

[ParentHealthIss]

It's not a "set up" but it is an unscripted role play; neither person is a professional actor. Dr. Cline (child psychiatrist) is modeling an example of what could be an effective way to talk with a teen about depression-depending on the child and the quality of the parent/child relationship. We hope it helps give parents ideas about how to approach a conversation with their child in a mature, hopeful, thoughful way.

[WhyaduckProductions]

well people must also understand that not all teens will be as gullible into accepting what you say, as kyle in the example was (not in any mean way of course. )

[ParentHealthIss]

That's true- not all kids will respond as Kyle does. However, the point of the video is to teach parents the process of talking with their child in a way that shows understanding, allows the child to express feelings, guides the child with questions, and gives hope. Thanks for your comment.

[ParentHealthIss]

Dr. Cline's guidelines for discussing difficult issues:

-Ask yourself whose needs are you addressing: yours or your child's?

-Consider if you are giving more information than the child wants or needs to hear?

- Be open to your child talking with you about anything.

- When you are not sure how to give the answer, ask more questions.

- Recognize that sometimes children try to protect you.

- Show acceptance even when you can't show approval.

- Every answer should leave room for hope.

[AyoGottaLetGo]

This is actually good, just the hand gesture seemed a little bit too awkward. I do think that telling your kid he is strong and that he can cope is a very good approach.

[mattjcarmichael]

Ultimately, I think we were created to make good out of evil, to create happiness out of pain, and that is the reason why life is beautiful. If we face our struggles, we can ONLY come out stronger in the end. We can only become better people. Sorry about how long this message, this video just struck me. Your message is simple and clear, and I think it is really important for all parents to learn to communicate positively with their children. Thank you :)

[mattjcarmichael]

I have found, through my own struggles with depression, that self-love and self-acceptance is basically central to everything. Helping to instill a teen that their struggles are not only normal (I remember getting angry when people told me this, because I felt like they were belittling my problems), but important.

[mattjcarmichael]

I'm really glad that you're doing this. The idea that facing adversity will make you stronger is SUCH an important idea to teach kids. It's difficult (if not impossible) to teach this to someone in one sitting, especially a teenager who is inclined to resist parental advice. Through the process you have established, though, I think the message will eventually get through.

[ambyleeful]

im pretending like he is my dad talking to me, because my parents' are never there for me!

[jmacjr101]

I have Cf too AND sometimes i Get like this as well. But it's cool :)