If you suspect your child or teen is experiencing depression, your support can be one of the most powerful tools in their healing. Here are some key ways to help: 

Be present and listen: Create a space where your child feels safe opening up. Listen without judgment or rushing to offer solutions. Knowing you're there and that their feelings are valid can bring a sense of comfort and relief. 

Seek professional support: Depression is not something a child should face alone. Reach out to your child’s school counselor or arrange time with a therapist. Mental health professionals can provide tools and guidance tailored to their needs.  

Create a supportive environment: Help your child feel safe and supported at home. Be mindful of their routines, limit access to anything potentially harmful, and offer consistent emotional support. If they express thoughts of self-harm or suicide, take it seriously—stay with them, and contact emergency services or a crisis hotline immediately (dial 988).  

Promote healthy coping strategies: Support your child in developing healthy habits like staying active, sleeping well, journaling, or doing creative activities they enjoy. Encourage social connections and routines that build confidence and stability. 

Talk openly about mental health: Help your child understand that depression is a real and treatable condition. Normalize asking for help and talk openly about mental health to reduce stigma. This empowers your child to speak up and take steps toward feeling better. 

Depression doesn’t disappear overnight—it’s a journey that takes time, patience, and continued support. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, teacher, or mentor, your role is crucial. Check in regularly, encourage them to stay engaged with therapy, and help them find healthy ways to manage stress. Positive routines, hobbies, and social connections can go a long way in lifting their mood and building self-esteem. 

Your understanding and compassion can make all the difference. When caring adults recognize the signs and respond with empathy, it helps young people feel seen, supported, and less alone. Depression is real—but it’s also treatable. With early recognition and the right care, kids and teens go on to live healthier, happier lives. 

At Connections, we provide immediate, mental health support from a team of experts for youth and families. With dedicated youth-serving centers in Tucson, Arizona and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, we’re here to provide compassionate care—right when it’s needed most. If you're near one of our locations, you can walk in anytime—no appointment or referral required.

Expanding access to youth mental health care

Connections is growing to meet the needs of more youth and families nationwide. We’re opening new doors and expanding services in 2025.

• Connections Prince William Crisis Receiving Center
  Opening soon in Woodbridge, Virginia, this new facility at 14011 Worth Avenue will provide round-the-clock behavioral health care for both youth and adults as part of the Prince William Crisis Receiving Center Complex.

  
  

• Connections Kirkland
  Our Kirkland, Washington center—currently focused on adult services—will begin offering care for youth starting in Summer 2025. Find us at 11410 NE 122nd Way, Kirkland, WA.

Not close to a Connections center? You’re not alone. National resources are available to help you and your family no matter where you are.

If a young person in your life needs immediate help or you’re unsure where to turn, call or text 988—the free, confidential national crisis helpline available 24/7. To learn more, visit 988helpline.org.