The issue of ‘teenage depression treatment’ can be a huge burden for parents and caregivers. Each of us wants what’s best for our child. Unfortunately, not all teens open up about their emotional problems, especially not to their parents.
On top of that, bringing up the subject of ‘depression’ or ‘treatment options’ can be quite challenging when the person you’re talking to is a teenage boy or girl who’s already going through changes and might not feel like he/she can handle them.
Fortunately, there are plenty of options for teens who might be struggling with depression. Over the last decades, researchers and mental health professionals have created numerous therapy programs designed to help struggling teens overcome depression.
The first step in helping your depressed teen is understanding what he/she is going through. And that’s where assessment centers come into play.
Assessment centers: The First Step Towards Recovery
Assessment centers are organizations or clinics that specialize in providing psychological evaluation and screening for depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Once your teen receives an in-depth clinical evaluation and diagnosis, a healthcare professional will help you determine the best course of action.
Assessment centers place a premium on evidence-based, data-driven approaches to mental illness. It’s impossible to come up with a robust and effective intervention plan without a comprehensive understanding of the persons’ condition.
But aside from psychological evaluation and diagnosis, assessment centers also provide psychoeducation. Part of promoting mental health is helping parents and teens understand the problem they’re dealing with.
It’s easier to take the necessary steps and overcome depression when you know what you’re up against.
Teenage Depression Treatment: What are the options?
1. Residential treatment centers
Residential treatment centers promote a holistic and integrative approach to well-being and mental health. From psychotherapy and day school to group activities and outpatient programs, residential centers provide a wide range of services.
For teens with depression, this experience can help them develop healthy coping mechanisms, learn valuable life skills, and regain their confidence.
2. Theta-burst stimulation (TBS)
Theta-burst stimulation is an emerging treatment option that has caught the attention of healthcare professionals from all over the world.
Using a special device that mimics the natural theta waves generated by our neurons, healthcare professionals can produce reliable and lasting changes in brain activity.
According to researchers, theta-burst stimulation is a safe and effective treatment option for individuals who struggle with treatment-resistant depression.
3. Wilderness therapy
Wilderness therapy is a relatively new approach that, as the name suggests, takes place outdoors. This therapeutic approach aims to harness the potential of social support, team effort, and enriching activities.
For teens with depression, spending some time outdoors – under the supervision of a trained professional – can help them get accustomed to being outside their comfort zone.
4. Transitional living
Transitional living programs specialize in creating an environment where teens can overcome their emotional struggles and keep up with their academic path at the same time.
Aside from individual and group therapy, teens can also benefit from exciting classes where they can master valuable professional and life skills.
To learn more about treatment options, click here.
