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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Depression > Daughter is depressed
Posted on: 01/19/2011
Question
I have a very serious situation on my hands with my 13-year-old daughter. All the signs are there that she is suffering with depression. We are and have been trying to get her help, but she will not open up at all to anyone! What can I or anyone do to get her to start talking and let the healing begin?
Answer
Even though your daughter isn't talking with you now, continuing to approach her with compassion and understanding is essential. Your kind and calm words and willingness to keep communication open -- the genuine desire to reach out and understand ?- can give hope to a hopeless teen. Be patient with her and with yourself ? your daughter?s issues can cause anxiety, anguish and distress in you as a parent as well. Consultation with a child and adolescent mental health professional is indicated when signs of depression do not seem to lift within several weeks. In order to find help, consult your daughter?s doctor, teachers, school counselors, or your religious counselors, local mental health association, hospital, or outpatient mental health services. A mental health professional with expertise in adolescent treatment can provide evaluation, recommendations, and treatment for your daughter and for the family if appropriate.