For the majority of parents, it's horrifying, and quite shocking when their child comes to them saying they are depressed, suffering from anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Some won't come out and say it, but there will be signs. They may not feel comfortable coming to their parents, scared they will be met with doubt or anger. They might become withdrawn, removing themselves from social functions, tell you they don't feel good, anything to say "Help me, please", without having to say it. They may not want to come to terms with it, rather wishing they were fine then admitting they have a problem. If you are lucky enough to have your child come to you, here is a guide for how to deal with it.
1. Believe Them
Don't turn them away, claiming what they are saying in reality isn't what it is. Don't minimize their problems, you don't know what they are going through, and the last thing you want is them going through this alone.
2. Don't meet them with anger
You will feel a variety of emotions, anger, maybe even disappointment, but do not meet your child's problems with anger. They won't feel comfortable going to you, or anyone, thinking no matter who they tell, they will only be met with anger.
3. Show them support
Refrain from turning your back on them, they didn't ask for this just as much as you didn't , but turning away can only make it worse for them. Show them that no matter what demons they are dealing with you are right there beside them. Meet them with open arms, and an open mind.
4. Get them help (only if they want it)
As a parent your first reaction would be to get them help, and for many, that will be the right decision. But forcing such upon your child can frighten them, let them know the offer for help is always on the table, and that when they feel they need it and are open to it, that you will be there beside them.
5. Reassure them everything will be okay
Being a parent means you have someone looking up to you, and going to you for safety, a beacon in their darkest times. Just a simple reassurance every now and then means more than you can imagine. A simple "I love you" can mean the world.
Kids these days are suffering with mental illness more than ever, and they need an outlet so they feel less alone, home is where they should feel comfortable, not trapped and contained. Sitting down with your child just to ask how they are doing can make a huge difference in their lives. Taking a minute out of your day for them and focusing on only them can change the way they view you and your relationship.
