When your teen says they’re living with depression, the best next step isn’t always to have them commit to a depression treatment program. Because of how the term is used in current times, depression can mean occasionally feeling sad or going through blue periods.
However, if symptoms are making it hard for your teen to function in daily life, it may be time to have them assessed and possibly diagnosed. They may be struggling with what’s commonly referred to as clinical depression. It can also be called major depressive illness, unipolar disorder, or major affective disorder. Clinical depression is a serious medical health issue that can sometimes be brushed aside as it’s thought of as being less severe than it actually is. Major depression can affect your teen’s behavior, feelings, moods, thoughts, and even their physical health. Are you searching for a depression treatment program in Redondo Beach or Manhattan Beach, CA? Reach out to Clear Recovery Center Teen Program today. You can call 866.522.2084 or contact our team online.
What Is a Depression Treatment Program?
The components of a depression treatment program are often customized based on a client’s medical history and specific needs. A diagnosis is required before professional treatment can begin because there are many different types of depression apart from the main one, clinical depression. There is also persistent depressive disorder (PDD) or high-functioning depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and even the well-known bipolar disorder — all of which teens can develop.
Typically, a depression treatment program includes psychotherapy and medication. This combination can be very effective for most teens struggling with depression. However, if your teen has severe depression or is in danger of self-harm, they may need to be admitted for hospitalization or residential treatment until they are stabilized.
Most treatment programs use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as a starting point for psychotherapy. When it comes to medications, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two drugs for treating depression — escitalopram and fluoxetine. You and your teen must discuss with the prescribing doctor the possible side effects of any medicine that could be part of your teen’s depression treatment program. One rare side effect is the increase in suicidal ideation in the first few weeks of taking antidepressants, so medications could be off the table for some clients.
If your teen is in danger of hurting someone else or committing self-harm, getting professional mental health treatment can help keep them safe and calm until they learn healthy coping skills.
How Does Professional Treatment Help in Living With Depression in Teens?
Psychotherapy can be effective for treating or managing depression. Through regular psychotherapy sessions, your teen can:
- Adjust to a crisis or another current difficulty
- Explore relationships and experiences
- Find better ways of coping with and solving problems
- Learn about the causes of depression
- Learn how to identify and make changes in unhealthy behaviors, emotions, or thoughts
- Reduce depression symptoms, such as feelings of anger and hopelessness
- Regain a sense of control and happiness
- Set realistic goals
Psychotherapy can help all clients struggling with depression, but it can be truly life-changing for teens struggling with high-functioning depression or PDD. This type of depression is characterized by constant fatigue, lack of energy, and perfectionism. Your teen may push through their negative feelings to show up for a close relationship, a deadline, or an important event — living through depression without showing any observable symptoms. Teens like this often have trouble admitting they need help, and psychotherapy can help them see that how they manage their depression symptoms is not feasible in the long term.
When Should You Consider a Depression Treatment Program?
Depression in teens is a serious problem. If you’re already considering a depression treatment program for your teen, the chances are that they sorely need professional help.
While you need to start at the beginning and have your teen assessed and diagnosed first, it’s essential to do this as soon as possible. Teens experience depression differently; some may already be deep into suicidal ideation when their loved ones notice symptoms. To ensure your teen’s safety, seek professional help right away.
Ready To Learn More About Clear Recovery Teen Program’s Depression Treatment Program?
If you’re looking for a depression treatment program in Redondo Beach or Manhattan Beach, CA, contact Clear Recovery Center Teen Program today. You can call 866.522.2084 or reach out to our team online.
