Although many teenagers experience distress, the following tips can help them manage their emotions and develop into healthy adults.
While all teenagers experience emotional upheaval, not all of them are prepared with the tools necessary to cope with it. Some people may go into a deep depression. Teenagers nowadays also face increased competition in the workplace and in the classroom, as well as mounting pressure to maintain an idealized online persona on platforms like Tik Tok and Instagram.
Depressive disorder is the most frequent mental health issue in Singapore, affecting 1 in 16 people at some point in their lives. How can you, a concerned friend or family member, assist a young person who is experiencing depression?
Readjusting How We Ask for Help
While most of us wouldn’t think twice about seeing a doctor if we had the flu, those struggling with depression sometimes wait much longer before getting treatment. This is because it is not often obvious to the depressed person or their loved ones that they are experiencing depression. Some people may believe that their condition is temporary and that they will “snap out of it” when the moment is right.
Then there’s the stigma attached to mental health issues like depression. Despite the fact that celebrities like Stephanie Sun, Mavis Hee, and Yvonne Lim have spoken out about their struggles with depression, the stigma associated with mental health issues prevents many individuals from opening up about their own struggles. People with depression do not seek treatment because they are weak or weak-willed; rather, depression is a medical condition similar to the stomach flu or even a chronic illness like hypertension. Changing the cultural norm requires a shift of perspective, which can be achieved through increased awareness and education.
Since people with depression sometimes have a hard time receiving help, it falls on their loved ones to spot the signs and help them get better. Curing depression is possible, and getting help as soon as possible is essential.
Connecting with The Important People in Your Life
Family
Reaching out to loved ones is usually the first step. Parents and siblings should be the first to notice any drastic changes in their loved ones’ behavior, demeanor, or appearance because of the close proximity they share. Since they are the ones who know the depressed individual best, family members often have the most sway to persuade them to get help.
A Community of Peers
A friend’s behavior that seems out of character, such as repeatedly declining invites, may warrant concern. Especially if your friend has told you privately that he or she has been having difficulties sleeping or is generally feeling down. Do raise a red flag and have a chat with them if they have been missing more and more time from work or school. Learn the warning signs of depression so you can help your friends who may be experiencing it.
Recently launched in Singapore, HappYouth teaches young people how to manage their feelings in times of distress and how to help their peers who are struggling with mental health difficulties. To better serve their peers, youth leaders receive education on how to be role models of positivity and happiness.
School and Work
Poor attendance from school or a job that persists or worsens over time is a red flag. Despite this, many depressed people are able to keep up appearances and show up for work as usual. Because of the frequent interaction that occurs there, institutions of higher learning and places of employment are in a strong position to identify signs of depression and support treatment.
However, many people may not disclose their depression for fear of repercussions at work or, for job searchers, in the job market. Those in authoritative positions, such as teachers and business owners, should have a foundational understanding of mental health in order to effectively manage and support employees and pupils who are experiencing mental health issues.
Help from the Community
Due to the negative connotations associated with talking about depression in public, those in need typically resort to confidential resources like hotlines and counseling programs. People with the illness and their caregivers might join one of the numerous accessible support groups for assistance.
What You Can Do
If you want to assist a loved one in overcoming depression, consider the following suggestions.
- Urge them to seek out competent assistance.
- Encourage wholesome practices, such as:
- Physical activity helps with stress relief, and a healthy person tends to have a more upbeat outlook on life in general.
- Hobbies are a great way to shake up the routine and promote relaxation.
- Getting away from it all and giving yourself a rest can help you break out of a rut and come back to your work with a renewed sense of purpose.
- Exhibit tolerance, compassion, and understanding.