--- Advertisement ---

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

“Lighten up!”: What Not to Say to Someone with Depression (Part 2 of 2)

Following Part 1’s explanation of what depression is and how to spot it, Part 2 offers clear advice for parents on what to do — and avoid — when supporting a teen who may be struggling. Since depression presents differently in everyone, there’s no universal fix. But these approaches can help build a foundation of trust and care before seeking professional help.

Just Listen

Avoid jumping in with advice or assumptions. Teens with depression often don’t need solutions — they need someone to truly listen without judgment or interruption. Focus on hearing them out, rather than planning your response.

Don’t Judge

Even if they’re silent or speaking in a way that doesn’t make sense to you, don’t push for clarity or try to “make sense” of their emotions. Depression is often hard to explain, even for the person feeling it. Let silence be part of the conversation if needed.

Keep an Open Mind

If you’ve never experienced mental illness, challenge your own stereotypes. Depression doesn’t mean someone is “crazy” or dangerous. Like any illness, it can range in severity, and it doesn’t define a person’s worth or identity.

Treat Them Normally

Avoid tiptoeing around the person or treating them as fragile. Isolation can worsen depression, so maintaining everyday connections is important. Speak with them as you would anyone else — kindly, honestly, and respectfully.

Don’t Blame Yourself or Them

Parents might blame themselves or believe they’ve failed. Teens might be told their problems stem from karma or lack of spiritual discipline. But depression isn’t anyone’s fault. It’s caused by a mix of biological, social, and psychological factors. Avoid framing it as a moral or spiritual failure.

Talk About Mental Health Openly

Start conversations early and often — not just when problems arise. Making mental health a normal topic of family discussion helps prevent shame and opens the door for honesty. Talking can be the first step to healing.

Seek Professional Help

If you’re concerned, don’t wait. Have a calm conversation and consider professional guidance. There’s no perfect family, and no shame in getting expert support. Mental illness is no less real than a broken limb, and it deserves the same care and attention.

Final Thought

Supporting a teen with depression starts with empathy, not expertise. Open dialogue, patience, and professional help can make all the difference.

Pssst... like what you're reading?

Join our community and never miss an event, post or update!

Just enter your email address below:

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Follow Us!

Upcoming Events

Recurring

The Litter Club Network – Summer Art Workshops

Junkyard Theatre Phuket 49/6 Moo. 5, Chalermphrakiat Ror 9 Road, Rassada, Muang,, Phuket, Thailand

SUMMER WORKSHOPS COMING IN JULY! Every Tuesday and Thursday. Class Dates: July 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31. 13:00 - 16:00 B1,200 per child per class. B 5,400 for 5 classes (10% discount). @junkyardtheatrephuket with @thelitterclubnetwork For kids 6/7 years and up. Younger kids can also join the fun, if a […]

฿1,200
Recurring

Blue Tree Phuket – Craft Workshop

Blue Tree Phuket 4/2 Srisoonthorn Rd., T. Cherngtalay, , Amphoe Moeang Thalang,, Phuket, Thailand

Our June Promotion just landed, ready to serve! Check out our Special deals & activities throughout the month at Blue Tree Phuket! Whether you’re here to hangout with your gang, spend time with family, sining, relax, shopping or workout, you’ll find the good atmosphere where people gather around at Blue Tree Phuket. Open Daily 7am […]

฿1,500

Kids Playgroup Cake Decorating

PLANTIFUL Bang Tao 37 Lagoon Rd, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Phuket, Phuket, Thailand

Cake Decorating Workshop for Kids! Join us for a fun-filled afternoon at Plantiful Bang Tao where little chefs can get creative and decorate their own delicious cake masterpieces! Date: Wednesday, […]

฿899
Get The Latest Updates

Subscribe To Our Weekly Newsletter

Get the latest kid and family-friendly activities and events in your inbox every Thursday! No spam, guaranteed.

More information

You May Also Like...

Hattifant Giant Mandala Paper Craft

We’ve got you covered during the school holidays! We’re excited to be offering Thailand-themed paper toys and crafts with crafter extraordinaire Manja of Hattifant! For the rest of the school

How to Boost Literacy Skills this Summer

Summer in Phuket is full of sunshine, beach trips, family adventures, and exciting camps. But it’s also the perfect time to keep your child’s reading and literacy skills sharp in

Why Camps Are Such Great Fun for Kids

Kids love holiday camps and for good reason! Most of the year, they go from home to school to extracurricular activities, with little time to simply break free and enjoy