Understanding Loneliness And Depression In Teens
It’s not uncommon to feel alone or depressed during adolescence. When these feelings last and how often they occur varies from person to person. However, loneliness and depression can be an important sign that you need outside help and support. Unresolved feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, occasionally feeling sad, irritable, or indifferent are part of growing up. The good news is that with the right understanding, support and patience from your family and friends, many teens do go through this stage successfully. Here’s more information by your therapist Edmonton about what can cause this type of loneliness and depression in teens:
What causes lonely or depressed teens?
Loneliness and depression can stem from a number of social challenges that teens face. These challenges are complex and not always fully understood. Some of the most significant include: A switch to new and more social friends - This happens naturally as teens are often tired of the same old friends. They are also looking for new experiences and challenges that they can’t get from their old friends. A change in family circumstances - This can include the loss of a family member, divorce, or other significant life event, such as moving to a new city. School issues - The pressure, competition, and uncertainty that all teens face can cause them to feel more isolated and low than others.
Understanding solitude and isolation in teens
Kids tend to be social animals and can often be found with their friends participating in activities. As they grow up they often feel the need to spend more time on their own. This is normal and healthy. However, if the need to be by yourself becomes excessive or lasts longer than usual, this may indicate a more serious social problem. Although teens may feel like they don’t have anyone to talk to or spend time with, this does not mean that they are socially awkward or have a problem that needs to be treated. Rather, it may mean that you are observing a natural pattern in many teens that usually ends after a few years. It’s important to note that venting to a friend or a parent doesn’t mean that you have a serious social problem. It just means that you’re open to talking about it with someone you trust.
Finding an outlet for teen depression
Many teens feel a need to spend time alone to deal with depression. This can include:
- Listening to music, reading, or writing to help process feelings.
- Taking walks or alone time to think.
- Talking to a friend or family member about how you feel.
- Taking a break from activities for a few hours to rest and relax.
- Avoiding social media for a few hours to give your brain a break from it.
- Doing something that gives your hands something to do while you think.
Supporting a teen with loneliness and depression
If you notice signs of loneliness or isolation in your teen, don’t hesitate to talk to them about it. Give them space and let them know that you care about them but let them know that you don’t want to hover or pressure them. This may mean talking more often or staying longer in a conversation until you know your teen is ready to stop. It may also mean setting aside time and activities with your teen that are not about their friends. If your teen is not open to talking about it, try some of these things: - Let them be alone and have space if they need it. - Keep an open door. Let them know that you are there for them, but don’t rush them. - Try to vent and talk out your feelings to someone like a friend or relative or a therapist. This can help relieve some of the pressure you may be feeling. - Don’t ignore your feelings. If you’re feeling down, don’t try to be upbeat for your teen or pretend like everything is great. Let your family and friends know that you need help. - Make a schedule and stick to it. This can help you stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Conclusion by your Edmonton therapist
Many teens will experience a transition to being on their own and experiencing more social pressure than their parents did. This can cause some stress and anxiety that may need to be addressed by getting help from a professional therapist in Edmonton. However, most teens will grow out of this stage and become more independent and confident with time. Understanding loneliness and depression in teens and how to support them is an important part of understanding your own feelings and needs. Loneliness and depression can be overcome with the right amount of support, patience, and time.
Your therapy is a safe, welcoming, counseling practice offering confidential mental health assessment and therapy in Edmonton. We hope this article brought to you by your trusted Edmonton psychologists is helpful. As always, please feel free to reach out with questions about mental wellness and therapy in Edmonton.
