Dealing with depression is extremely difficult, but dealing with a loved one who is battling it can be just as hard. When people are depressed, they cut off many people around them. Although, the reality is, they desperately want help. Those who suffer from depression want to be shown that people care about them as many of them struggle with feelings of loneliness. So, it's great that you want to intervene, because that's a huge help to your son already, but the way you help is most important. A misstep could lead him to shutting you out even more than he already has. Without poking and prodding at the problem, be there for your son in any way possible. Show him you care about him because the little things that bring happiness to someone can shed light on a brighter future. Start small – thoughtful small talk will create small moments. You seem eager to help, but just don't be too overbearing. Kids get annoyed with their parents quite easily, and if you feel like he is detaching himself from the world, then that can worsen the situation.
Many parents don't realize their kids are depressed. More often than not, they chalk it up to average issues kids face, which never seem that detrimental to their wellbeing. Parents often forget that school is tough, relationships are a struggle and life changes drastically at that age and it's easy to ignore possible warning signs of deteriorating mental health. Some signs that your child may be depressed, and worse, suicidal, are loss of appetite, social anxiety or a change in social behaviour, irresponsible behaviour, irritability and low self-esteem. Keep in mind, all of these can be attributed to growing pains, but when they appear out of the blue and all at once, then it's safe to say your child needs guidance - and that's where you come in. If your child is resistant to talk to you about the issues they face, they may actually want to talk to someone so be sure to offer professional options. While the very offer may offend them, explain how having an outlet can be therapeutic. Depression doesn't always lead to suicide, but it can still be life damaging. Sometimes, when people are depressed, they sabotage their own lives, and sometimes without realizing it. For a kid, this could mean a drop in grades or even a threat of dropping out. Whatever the warning signs are, they're there to act on.
Very few people actually want to cut their life short, but every year, thousands do because they see no end to their despair. Most people who leave suicide letters note that they felt boxed in, like there was no other way out. They feel as if they've been forgotten by the world. One thing you can do is to reach out to those you suspect of having suicidal thoughts. Marie Osmond's son Michael was thought to have been recovered and doing well. At least that's what the entertainer had told the media in 2009. While we can't spend our lives second guessing, one can never assume their child is out of the woods. Depression takes time to heal and can return without warning. Be involved and take an interest in your child's life. Keep in touch with where your kid is at, emotionally and mentally. The love you show them will have a lasting, positive affect on them. And coupled with professional help, it could make a significant difference for your child.