Teen Depression and Anxiety
Parent Cheat Sheet from Presentation on 10/8/2019
Mrs. Christa Codoluto LMSW
Warning signs of Depression:
- Cannot find pleasure or joy in life
- Concentration & focus becomes harder
- Isolation-always alone in the bedroom/no social interaction
- Everything feels hopeless
- Self-esteem is often absent
- Sleeping may be problematic
- Low energy level
- Loss of appetite or large increase in appetite
- Physical aches and pains/ frequent stomachaches and headaches
- Frequent crying, restless, or easily agitated
- Poor school performance
- Lack of motivation
- Obsessive thoughts of death and/or suicide
Warning Signs of Severe Anxiety:
- Recurring fears and worries about routine and parts of everyday life
- Changes in behavior, such as irritability
- Avoiding of activities, school, or social interactions
- Decreasing grades/academic failure
- Trouble sleeping or concentrating
- Substance use or other risky behaviors
- Chronic Physical complaints, such as fatigue, headaches, or stomachaches
Healthy Coping Skills for Teen Depression:
- Mindfulness meditation
- Exercise (walking/running)
- Spending time in nature/getting sunlight
- List the things you like about yourself
- Read a good book/Journaling
- Watch a funny movie or tv show
- Take care of a few small tasks
- Play with a pet
- Talking to friends/family face-to-face
- Listen to music
- Speak with a professional
Healthy Coping Skills for Anxiety:
- Deep breathing exercises
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation
- Drinking water/making sure to eat breakfast
- Create a relaxation tool kit for the home
- Journaling
- Listening to music
- Think about a fun time you had and try to remember every detail (refocus thought)
- Talking to a family member or friend
- Exercise/taking a walk
- Yoga and Mindfulness Meditation
MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
NYC WELL
https://nycwell.cityofnewyork.us/en/
Cohen Children’s Medical Center: Pediatric Behavioral Health Urgent Care Center
Elmhurst Hospital: Behavioral Health
https://www.nychealthandhospitals.org/elmhurst/our-services/behavioral-health/
Catholic Charities: Mental Health and Social Services
