Are you worried about the effects of the pandemic on your teenager? You’re not alone. Teen depression and anxiety have been on the rise over the last decade, even before COVID-19 forced us into isolation.
There are many signs of depression that you can recognize in your teen. No matter what they’re going through, there are many ways to help them.
Why Does My Teen Have Depression From the Pandemic?
It’s important to understand why your teen is depressed so you can move forward with an empathetic mindset. Here are some reasons your teenager could be experiencing depression or anxiety from the pandemic:
- Isolation and loneliness: When quarantines and school closures occurred, your teen was suddenly isolated. They lost their day-to-day interactions with teachers, coaches, peers, and more. Being cut off suddenly from personal interactions creates feelings of loneliness, which can severely impact mental health.
- Disruption of routine: The pandemic severed routines and support systems that provided healthy structures for teens. Teens were suddenly left to see things through on their own and take on more agency to complete tasks.
- Uncertainty and fear: The persistence of the pandemic was shocking for many. There seemed to be no end in sight, and predictions were ambiguous. Add that to the fluctuating waves of cases and deaths, and you have an unpleasant mix of confusion and concern.
- Increased stress: School and academics are already stressful for teens. During remote learning, students lost the classroom activities and support that develop their learning abilities. This loss of enrichment impacted their learning performance and escalated their stress.
- Loss of a loved one: Losing a loved one became even harder during the pandemic. Funerals and gatherings that allowed people to mourn were put on hold. Many were cut off from family and friends who could support them with their grief.
How to Help Your Teen With Pandemic Depression
You can have a positive impact on your teen’s mental health. Here are some helpful tips to get you started:
- Establish a routine: Wake your teens up at the same time each day, have regularly scheduled meals, and provide some type of structure your teen can follow. This can include set hours for doing homework and time for leisure activities.
- Exercise: Any kind of physical activity will raise endorphins and a sense of well-being. This is an activity that you can even do together, whether it’s a walk around the block, learning how to roller skate, or lifting weights at home.
- Encourage sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential to anyone’s physical and mental health. Encourage a nighttime routine, such as turning off screens, taking a bath, or reading a book.
- Two-way communication: Remember to openly talk to your teenager about any concerns and listen in return. Create a safe space for them to communicate their feelings and meet them with affirmation and empathy.
- Get help: Reach out to your physician. They can help you with treatment options, such as therapy referrals, medication recommendations, and resources. Each person is unique, and you can find options tailored to your teen’s needs.
Help Is Available. Reach Out to Lakeside Academy for Support.
Your teen can overcome depression with proper support. At Lakeside Academy, we will give you compassionate guidance and help you navigate your unique situation. Call us today at 844-768-8336 or send us a message.