Helping Your Teen Overcome Depression: A Guide for Parents

Teen depression is on the rise in North America. According to the statistics, one teen in every high school classroom is probably suffering from a major depression. These teens come from all social, economic and cultural backgrounds - from anyone`s family or community. Parents often agonize over this problem, but do nothing, hoping for the best and allowing the teenager time and space to work out his or her own problems. They try to give extra love, support and attention, but they can`t help worrying. Dr. Miriam Kaufman gives the concerned parent a thorough overview of the most up-to-date medical knowledge. Drawing on her own experience and that of other doctors and psychologists who work with teenagers, and offering many illustrative case histories, the author explains what teen depression is and how it can be overcome. Medical and psychiatric conditions, gender and sexuality differences, substance abuse, anxiety, poverty and suicide, as well as the social and practical aspects of life with a depressed teen are discussed. Medical approaches, including therapy and drug treatment, are covered in detail. An entire chapter is dedicated to alternative treatments. And in a broad-ranging question-and-answer section, Dr. Kaufman addresses many of the specific concerns of parents, and of teenagers themselves. This comprehensive look at teen depression is sure to be helpful not only to teens and parents, but to teachers, guidance counselors and all those who work with adolescents.