Bolstering self-critical #children who tend to talk themselves down

Writer: Katherine Martinelli

Clinical Expert: Rachel Busman, PsyD, ABPPEN ESPAÑOL

What You'll Learn

- Why might #kids say bad things about themselves?

- What can #parents do to help kids who are hard on themselves?

- Quick Read

- Full Article

- What is #self-talk?

- Globalized thinking

- Perfectionism

- Too cool for #school

- Attention-seeking

- Lack of resilience

- #Bullying

- When to worry

- What #parents can do to help

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Quick Read

All #kids say bad stuff about themselves sometimes. But when their inner voice keeps saying bad things, it can have a negative effect on them.

#Children who expect a lot of themselves may be prone to negative #self-talk. For older #kids, saying things like, “I’m so stupid” or, “I’m so fat” can be a way of protecting themselves from social pressure. They may say bad things about themselves before someone else does it. And #kids who are being #bullied may start to believe the bad things other #kids say about them and start saying them too.

While some #kids may do this as a way of getting attention, others do it because they’re not good at bouncing back when something bad happens. They also might not want to try new or hard things.

#Parents should take negative #self-talk seriously when it starts to happen a lot and causes problems with #school or friends. Also watch out if your #child stops eating or sleeping well or complains about feeling sick a lot and doesn’t want to go to school. This could mean your #child is depressed.

#Parents can help. Really listen to your #child and show that you care how they feel. Try not to be overly cheery when they share a concern. When you catch yourself being negative, correct yourself. For example, if you burn something and blurt out, “I’m a terrible cook,” correct that. Say, “Actually I’m a pretty good cook. Everyone makes mistakes.” Check in with your child’s #teachers, too.

If your #child keeps saying bad things about themselves, seems to be depressed or has other changes in their #behavior, it makes sense to talk to #mentalhealthprofessional.

We hear #kids say negative things about themselves all the time: “I’m so stupid!” “Nobody likes me.” And, of course, “I’m fat.” Or “I’m ugly.” Sometimes these things are throwaway lines, or fishing for reassurance. They may be harmless. But what experts call negative #self-talk can also reflect an unhealthy tendency in #kids to think the worst of themselves, and that can lead to—or be a sign of—something more serious.

What is #self-talk?

#Self-talk is essentially our inner monologue, explains Rachel Busman, PsyD, a clinical #psychologist. It can be a way of narrating what is happening around you, practicing language, and guiding yourself through a task.

While #self-talk is often constructive, it can also go the other way. We all engage in self-critical #behavior from time to time, and it isn’t an immediate cause for concern. But it’s useful to think about why your #child might be talking themselves down, and when it might reflect a problem.

Globalized thinking

#Kids often make statements about themselves that reflect “all or none thinking,” explains Lisa Brown, PsyD, a private practitioner and #psychologist at the Rodeph Sholom Day #School in New York. For example, when a #child doesn’t do well in one soccer game and exclaims, “I stink at soccer!” When this kind of globalized thinking persists, she says, it “can affect how #children think and feel about themselves in general.”

Perfectionism

“#Children who set impossibly high standards for themselves,” says Dr. Brown, “are prone to engage in negative #self-talk.” These perfectionists can be so hard on themselves that they run themselves down trying to reach their goals.

Too cool for #school

Sometimes the self-deprecating “I’m so going to fail that test!” or “I’m so fat!” can be a form of social protection. For older #kids in particular, “the social sphere becomes really important,” says Dr. Busman. In certain social circles it may not be cool to be smart, and obsessing over appearances may be a way to fit in with the popular #kids. Or maybe the #child is trying to beat others to the punch by making negative statements first.

Attention-seeking

“Sometimes,” says Dr. Brown, “#children may engage in negative self-talk, verbalized out loud, in an attempt to manipulate others or in an effort to get attention.” For example a #child may try to guilt #parents by talking about what a horrible #child they are and how they deserve to be punished.

Lack of resilience

In some cases, self-critical thought can be an indication of lack of resilience or “grit,” as some #psychologists refer to it. “If #children regularly respond to disappointments with negative #self-talk that is out of proportion to the particular disappointments,” says Dr. Brown, “this can lead to avoiding certain experiences as well as a lack of motivation to persevere in the face of difficulties.”

#Bullying

If a #child is being picked on, it can be easy for them to internalize the insults aimed at them. Shawna Palomo, mom to a 17-year-old daughter, says her daughter’s negative #self-talk emerged when she was 13. “They made fun of her,” recalls Palomo. “After a while, she would believe all the bad stuff her classmates were saying about her. She would always say how ugly she was.” Her daughter complained that her lips and nose were too big, her hair too curly. “It’s hard watching your #child battle these demons,” laments Palomo.

When to worry

In #isolation, negative #self-talk is natural and not cause for concern. But it can also be evidence of low #self-esteem, a #learningdisability, #anxiety, or #depression. Dr. Busman offers these signs to look out for:

- The negative #self-talk is persistent and pervasive.

- It is not based in reality. For example, your son gets invited to play dates but still frets that no one likes him, or he always aces spelling tests but remains anxious that he will fail.

- It is impacting a child’s relationships or schoolwork.

- Your child’s eating and/or sleeping patterns have changed.

- They’re making persistent, vague “I don’t feel well” statements in the absence of physical symptoms.

Palomo noticed many of these signs in her daughter as the negative #self-talk led to #depression. “She would not care about her appearance, then it went to the extreme where her appearance was all she cared about.” She didn’t do her homework, lost weight, and wanted to stay in bed all day.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

What #parents can do to help

Here are some ways to free #children from negative thinking and steer them away from destructive #self-talk:

Listen and validate. It can be tempting to ignore it when a #kid first expresses negative feelings, but Dr. Busman says she “would recommend never just brushing off those kinds of comments, even if they’re kind of silly or not based in any reality.” Instead, offer a safe place for your #child to come with concerns and try to find out what is going on.

Offer a realistic approach. Both Dr. Busman and Dr. Brown advise against battling critical #self-talk with overly optimistic “positive thinking,” and recommend a more realistic approach. So if a #child says they’re sure no one will talk to them on their first day at a new #school, you don’t want to say, “The first day of #school is going to be great and you’re going to make a million friends.” Instead, you might offer: “The first day of #school might be a bit scary, but as you settle in you will likely make friends and grow to love it.”

Put it in context. Dr. Brown notes that #adults can help by talking with kids in a way that “contextualizes their experience” and offers a “broader perspective.” Help them identify specifically what upset them, she explains, or made them make such a self-critical statement, and acknowledge that one bad experience doesn’t equate being the worst at something.

Model realistic and positive #self-talk. Try to stop saying self-critical things about yourself, too. Don’t fixate on mistakes you’ve made, or worry out loud about your weight. We want to model positive #self-esteem for our #children. Dr. Busman also suggests offering stories from your own life to relate to your #child. “Whether it’s an embellished example or entirely factual,” she says, “you’re modeling non-anxious coping and more realistic #self-talk.”

Correct the record. Dr. Brown also notes catching yourself in the midst of making a negative statement can create a valuable teachable moment. Say you burn something and yell in frustration, “I’m a terrible cook!” Continue the conversation in front of your #child with something like “actually, I’m a pretty good cook most of the time, I just messed up this dish but I’m not going to let that stop me from cooking in the future.”

Touch base with school. If your #child is in school, check in with their #teachers about what you’re hearing. Getting their perspective can help you see a more complete picture. Dr. Busman notes that this kind of information can also be useful later should you end up having a professional evaluation.

Seek professional help. If the #behavior is persistent and negatively impacting your child’s life, or if it’s linked to other troubling shifts in mood and #behavior it might be time to obtain a diagnostic evaluation to help determine what is causing the problem. Dr. Busman calls this a “#mentalhealth check-up,” and it can help pinpoint what is going on and how it can be treated.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2023/02/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-how-to-help-kids-who-are-too-hard-on-themselves/

What #parents need to know about therapy, medication and finding a good clinician

Writer: Rachel Ehmke

Clinical Experts: Jill Emanuele, PhD , David Friedlander, Psy

What You'll Learn

- How does treatment for #depression work?

- What kinds of therapy can treat #depression?

- What kinds of medication can treat #depression?

- Quick Read

- Full Article

- What to expect from a clinician

- Therapy for #depression

- #Cognitivebehavioraltherapy (#CBT)

- #Dialecticalbehaviortherapy (#DBT)

- #Interpersonalpsychotherapy (#IPT)

- #Mindfulnessbasedcognitivetherapy (#MBCT)

- Medication treatment

- Dosage and side effects

- Monitoring for #suicidalthinking

- Going off medication

- Family involvement

Getting treatment for #children with #depression may seem daunting, but it really can help. Treatment for #depression almost always involves therapy, and it can include medication as well.

The first step is finding the right clinician. Your child’s clinician should help you understand the treatment and take your questions seriously. It’s common for people with #depression to be reluctant to try treatment, so it’s important for your #child or #teenager to comfortable with the clinician, too.

One of the most effective therapies for #depression is #cognitivebehavioraltherapy (#CBT). #CBT helps #kids learn how their thoughts, feelings and #behavior are connected. They learn to catch unhelpful thought patterns and build coping skills. For more severe #depression, #dialecticalbehaviortherapy (#DBT) can help #kids learn to manage intense emotions. #Interpersonalpsychotherapy (#IPT) and #mindfulnessbasedcognitivetherapy (#MBCT) have also been shown to help #teenagers and young #adults with #depression.

When therapy alone isn’t enough, #kids can also take medication for #depression. The most common medications for #depression are called SSRIs (like Zoloft and Prozac) and SNRIs (like Strattera and Cymbalta). It’s very important for #kids who take medication to work closely with a #doctor. The #doctor can make sure your #child is taking the right amount and look out for any side effects.

Finally, it’s essential for the family to be involved in a child’s #depression treatment. #Parents can learn how to support their child and help them practice new skills at home. Having a #child with #depression can be hard on families, and getting support from the #therapist often makes a big difference.

Getting treatment for #depression can feel daunting. Often the #depression itself gets in the way. A #child who is depressed might be feeling overwhelmed, tired and hopeless. They might also be unfairly blaming themselves or their circumstances for the way they feel. These are some of the characteristic symptoms and thoughts that accompany #depression, and they can make it hard for someone who’s depressed to speak up and ask for help, or believe concerned #parents when they say treatment for #depression can help them.

But treatment can really help #children and #adolescents struggling with #depression, including several different kinds of therapy and medication that have all been proven to be effective. Research shows that the most effective treatment is a combination of therapy and medication.

Wendy Nash, MD, a #child and #adolescent #psychiatrist, says she considers therapy “nearly a requirement” when she is prescribing medication for #depression, explaining that the skills taught in therapy are essential. Part of the advantage with therapy is that the skills #children learn will always stay with them.

What to expect from a clinician

Having a good relationship with your child’s clinician is essential, because the more engaged and committed your #child is in treatment, the more likely it is to be successful. A good clinician should make sure you understand the goals of treatment and make you feel like your questions are being taken seriously. You should also feel that you can be honest about how your #child is doing.

Jill Emanuele, PhD, senior director of the Mood Disorders Center at the #ChildMindInstitute, says one of the first things she does with a new #patient is try to establish a good rapport. “You get to know the person, you make them comfortable. You establish a safe space where you show them that you’re listening and you care. Often enough we’re the first person that’s actually listening to them in a way they haven’t experienced before, or have not experienced often.”

If a person is resistant to treatment, Dr. Emanuele says she tries to address that. “Maybe they’ve had a difficult experience with therapy before, or they don’t really trust #adults, or perhaps they are shamed by their #behavior or what they’re feeling, and they don’t want to show it to another person.”

If your #child hasn’t received a formal diagnosis yet, his clinician should begin with an evaluation. This is to confirm that your #child actually does have #depression, and also to determine if they have another #mentalhealth or #learningdisorder as well. It isn’t that uncommon for #kids with undiagnosed #anxiety, #ADHD, #learningdisorders and other issues to develop #depression. If your #child has multiple disorders, then their treatment plan should include getting help for all of them.

Therapy for #depression

There are different kinds of therapy that are considered “evidence-based” for treating #depression, which means that they have been studied and clinically proven to be effective. Here is a breakdown of some of them:

#Cognitivebehavioraltherapy (#CBT)

#Cognitivebehavioraltherapy is the gold standard therapy for treating #children and #adolescents with depression. #CBT works by giving people skills to cope with symptoms like depressed mood and unhelpful thoughts (like “no one likes me” or “things will always be like this”). In #CBT the #child and their #therapist collaborate to meet set goals, like catching those unhelpful thought patterns and improving problem-solving ability.

Central to the treatment is teaching #kids that their thoughts, feelings and #behaviors are all interconnected, so changing one of these points can change all three. For example, one technique called “#behavioral activation” encourages them to participate in activities and then observe the effect it has on their mood. In Dr. Emanuele’s words, “We set up a hierarchy of activities they can start to engage in. The idea is to get moving and active, so you not only get that physical momentum, but you also start to experience more positive thoughts from having success and interacting more with others.”

#Behavioral activation helps counter the #isolation that #teenagers with #depression often experience, which can reinforce their depressed mood.

#Dialecticalbehaviortherapy (#DBT)

For #teenagers with more severe #depression, #dialecticalbehaviortherapy can be helpful. #DBT is a form of #CBT that was adapted for people who have trouble managing very painful emotions, and may engage in risky #behavior, #self-harm like cutting, and #suicidalthoughts or attempts.

To manage intense emotions, people participating in #DBT learn to practice mindfulness (being fully present in the moment and focusing on one thing at a time, without judgment) and develop problem solving skills like tolerating distress, handling difficult situations in a healthy way and interacting more effectively with friends and family. #DBT is a highly structured treatment that includes individual therapy and skills groups. #DBT for #adolescents includes sessions with #parents and their #child learning skills together.

#Interpersonalpsychotherapy (#IPT)

Social relationships can sometimes influence and even maintain #depression. When a person is depressed their relationships can also suffer. Interpersonal therapy works by addressing a child’s relationships to make them more healthy and supportive. In this therapy children learn skills for better communicating their feelings and expectations, they build problem-solving skills for handling conflicts, and they learn to observe when their relationships might be impacting their mood.

IPT has been adapted for #adolescents with #depression to address common #teen relationship concerns including romantic relationships and problems communicating with #parents or peers. Called IPT-A, this specialized form of interpersonal therapy is typically a 12- to 16-week treatment. #Parents will be asked to participate in some of the sessions.

#Mindfulnessbasedcognitivetherapy (#MBCT)

While its efficacy is still being measured in #adolescents, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is another treatment that has been shown to work for young #adults and #adults with #depression.

MBCT works by combining #cognitivebehavioraltherapy (#CBT) methods with mindfulness. Mindfulness teaches people to be fully present in the moment and observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment. This can help them interrupt undesirable thought patterns that can maintain or lead to a depressive episode, like being self-critical or fixating on negative things in ways that are not constructive.

MBCT was originally developed to help people with recurring episodes of #depression, but it can also be used for treating a first episode of #depression.

Medication treatment

#Children and #adolescents with #depression can also benefit from medication, and clinicians often prescribe medication for more severe #depression or when therapy alone isn’t providing effective treatment.

Medications most often prescribed to treat #depression are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Zoloft, Prozac and Lexapro, and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like Strattera and Cymbalta. These medications are also known as antidepressants. Your child’s clinician may also prescribe an atypical antidepressant like Wellbutrin.

Dr. Nash says that sometimes young people (and their families) are worried about taking medication for #depression. People often worry that medication will change their personality, or they will feel “drugged.” They also worry that they might become addicted to the medication.

She takes these concerns seriously, and talks to #patients and their families about what to expect. The right medication at the right dose won’t make a #child feel drugged and it won’t change who he is, but it should help his symptoms of #depression. She also explains that antidepressants are not addictive. “You don’t have an urge to take them, or seek them out to the detriment of your relationships,” she says. When it is time to stop taking antidepressants, it is uncommon for people to have ongoing symptoms of withdrawal if they taper off the medication carefully, and under the supervision of their #doctor.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Dosage and side effects

It is rare for a person to stay on the same dose she is initially prescribed. Instead, #doctors adjust dosage once every week or every two weeks in the beginning, as the medication builds up in the brain to reach an effective level. During this time your child’s clinician will ask questions about how she is tolerating the medication, including side effects she might be experiencing.

“Most uncomfortable side effects will present early,” says Dr. Nash. “I tell #patients you might experience side effects before the desired effects.” Clinicians should stay in touch with families during these first several weeks, monitoring how #children are feeling and providing guidance because, as Dr. Nash says, “It can be a hard time for #patients, who might feel headaches or #insomnia, but not feel better yet.” She says the side effects can go away after one to two weeks.

It can take a while for a #patient to start feeling the full effect of an antidepressant medication. “The medication might start to work at two to four weeks, but you can still be feeling more benefit at six weeks further out,” says Dr. Nash.

Monitoring for #suicidalthinking

The #FoodandDrugAdministration has issued a warning that #children and #adolescents taking some antidepressant medications may experience an increased risk of #suicidalthoughts. Many studies have shown that the benefits of antidepressant medications outweigh the risks of going without treatment, so they are still prescribed to young people. To keep #patients safe, a protocol has been developed for prescribing clinicians to help them closely monitor #patients for any worsening in #depression or emergence of suicidal thinking as they are adjusting to a new medication.

Going off medication

To avoid a recurrence of #depression, Dr. Nash says it is a good idea to stay on medication for at least a year after a #child has stopped feeling any symptoms of #depression. She also warns that it is important to think about the “optimal” time to stop taking medication. For example, it isn’t a good idea to stop taking his medication right before the SATs or when he’s going off to college.

To avoid unpleasant side effects, your #child shouldn’t stop taking medication cold turkey. Tapering off antidepressants gradually, with the guidance of a clinician who is monitoring him to make sure he is healthy, is important.

Family involvement

Both Dr. Nash and Dr. Emanuele emphasize that families should always be involved in the treatment of a child’s #depression. “Part of treatment, especially in the beginning, is to teach #parents about #depression and how therapy works, says Dr. Emanuele. “It’s really important that #parents understand the concepts behind the treatments so that they can coach their #child, day-to-day, to use the skills that they’re learning.” Dr. Emanuele adds that #parents often find that they benefit from learning the skills as well.

Clinicians can also be helpful in giving #parents tips on interacting with a #child with #depression, which can sometimes be difficult. #Children with #depression might try to isolate themselves from family, or interpret even well-meaning parental concern as critical rather than loving. Knowing how to be supportive is important. Dr. Emanuele says that she helps #parents develop a situation-specific plan to help them know when to lean in and when to back off. Clinicians can also give advice about fostering more positive interactions.

For #parents who are struggling because of their child’s illness, getting this support can be a big relief. And, of course, as soon as a #child starts feeling better, her #parents will start feeling better, too.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2023/02/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-treatment-for-depression-2/

Why it's especially tempting — and risky — for #kids with emotional or #behavioral challenges

Writer: Caroline Miller

Clinical Expert: Sarper Taskiran, MD

What You'll Learn

- Why is #substanceuse more dangerous for #teens with #mentalhealthdisorders?

- Why do #teens with #mentalhealthdisorders use substances?

- Why does #substanceuse make a #mentalhealthdisorder worse?

- Quick Read

- Full Article

- Why are #kids with #mentalhealthdisorders prone to #substanceuse?

- Why is #alcohol use riskier for #teenagers?

- Why #teenagers get addicted sooner

- Why #substanceuse makes #depression and #anxiety worse

- #Psychosis and #substanceuse

When #teenagers are upset or angry, they often turn to #alcohol or #drug use to help them manage their feelings. While #adults do this too, a #teenager’s brain is still developing. So if teens use #drugs or #alcohol to feel better, they’ll run into problems more quickly than #adults.

Drinking or smoking #marijuana can help make #hopelessness, #anxiety, irritability and negative thoughts disappear quickly. But over time, they’ll make them worse. #Teens also become addicted more quickly than #adults. This is especially true if they have #mentalhealthdisorders.

If they’re not treated, almost half of #kids with #mentalhealthdisorders will end up having a #substanceusedisorder. This can make it harder to treat their #mentalhealth. It can also impact their future.

#Alcohol affects #teenagers differently. Instead of slowing them down, #alcohol can make #teens feel more energetic, do riskier things and get more aggressive. Drinking is even more dangerous for #kids with #ADHD because they’re already impulsive. #Substanceuse can also make depressed #teenagers more prone to impulsive #suicidalbehavior.

#Substanceuse is also a problem for #teens or young #adults with #schizophrenia. If a person with #schizophrenia uses drugs or #alcohol, they’re more likely to have psychotic episodes.

Experts note that to encourage #teens to reduce or stop #substanceuse, it’s important give them other coping strategies to manage their problems without turning to substances.

When #teenagers are struggling with emotional problems, they often turn to #alcohol or #drug use to help them manage painful or difficult feelings. In this they are not different from #adults. But because #adolescent brains are still developing, the results of #teenage “self-medication” can be more immediately problematic.

In the short term, #substanceuse can help alleviate unwanted #mentalhealthsymptoms like #hopelessness, #anxiety, irritability and negative thoughts. But in the longer term it exacerbates them, and often ends in abuse or dependence. #Substanceuse escalates from experimentation to a serious disorder much faster in #adolescents than it does in #adults, and that progression is more likely to happen in #kids with #mentalhealthdisorders than in other #kids.

“The rule of thumb is that almost half of #kids with #mentalhealthdisorders, if they’re not treated, will end up having a #substanceusedisorder,” explains Sarper Taskiran, MD, a #child and #adolescent #psychiatrist at the #ChildMindInstitute.  A 2016 study of 10,000 #adolescents found that two-thirds of those who developed #alcohol or #substanceusedisorders had experienced at least one #mentalhealthdisorder.

#Substanceuse also interferes with treatment for #mentalhealthdisorders and worsens the long-term prognosis for a #teenager struggling with one. How can we help these young people avoid the #substanceuse trap when the deck seems to be stacked against them?

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Why are #kids with #mentalhealthdisorders prone to #substanceuse?

#Kids who are anxious or depressed may feel more emotionally “even” if they drink or smoke #marijuana. For socially anxious kids, it can quiet the #anxiety enough to allow them to function in peer groups. And since their friends do it, it’s not stigmatized the way taking medication is.

“Pre-gaming is a lot about #anxiety,” notes Jeanette Friedman, MSW, who works with families of #adolescents with #substanceuse problems. “The #kids are saying ‘Let’s go have some fun before we go to the real party.’ But in fact, most of them feel like they need it to calm down enough so they can walk into a group where they’re going to feel exposed and criticized.”

A #teen with #anxiety might start by smoking #marijuana to calm down before social events, and soon find himself smoking every morning just to get to #school. “I’ve had very stressed-out #kids say, ‘I get high before I go to #school because I’m so anxious when I think about the start of the #school day,’ says Ms. Friedman. “‘If I smoke a little weed, I don’t feel so anxious.’”

#Kids who are depressed may use #alcohol or #marijuana to cheer themselves up, Dr. Taskiran notes, and blunt the irritability that is a symptom of #adolescent #depression. “They know there’s something wrong with them,” he says. “They’re not taking pleasure in things, they’re not feeling happy. So if their peers are offering a #drug that makes you happy, that’s often the first thing they turn to.” #Substanceuse can quiet negative thoughts that plague depressed #kids.

It’s also common for #children with #mentalhealth or #learningdisorders to develop #self-esteem problems, a sense that there’s something wrong with them or that they’re flawed. When these #children reach #adolescence, with its focus on fitting in, notes Ms. Friedman, “they really want to be normal and they don’t feel normal. And that means they’re more vulnerable to somebody passing around a #drug, because they’re just trying to feel better.”

Why is #alcohol use riskier for #teenagers?

#Alcohol affects #teens differently from #adults. While #adults tend to get more subdued and slowed down by #alcohol, in #adolescents it’s the opposite. They tend to become more energetic, engage in more risky #behavior and get more aggressive.

Dr. Taskiran uses the example of driving.  “When #adults drink and drive you worry about slowing of the reflexes and lapses in attention, like missing a stop sign,” he explains. “But with #adolescents, we’re worried that they’re going to get more activated. It’s not that they won’t see the red light, but they might try to run it.”

This is especially dangerous for #kids with #ADHD, who are already impulsive. And #substanceuse makes depressed #teenagers more prone to impulsive #suicidalbehavior.  “The #adolescent will still be depressed,” says Dr. Taskiran, “but the things that usually hold him back won’t be there while he’s intoxicated, like love for family or the belief that he’s going to get better.”

Why #teenagers get addicted sooner

#Adolescent #alcohol or #drug use accelerates very quickly when an untreated #mentalhealthdisorder is present. ”Within months we can see problematic use,” says Dr. Taskiran.

Why are they different than #adults? In the #adolescent brain, pathways between regions are still developing. This is why #teens learn new things quickly. This “plasticity” means the brain easily habituates to #drugs and #alcohol. “If you start drinking at 30, you don’t get addicted nearly as fast as if you start drinking at 15,” adds Ms. Friedman.

#Alcohol and #drugs also affect the same brain regions that are at play in #behaviordisorders like #ADHD and #ODD, says Dr. Taskiran. #Teenagers who have those disorders get more satisfaction from the substance — and are more likely to become addicted. “Biologically they get more from the drug,” he adds, “so that’s why they get more hooked on it.”

It’s important to know that #substanceuse can have disrupt a young person’s life even if he is not technically dependent on the drug. This is especially true for #youth with #mentalhealthdisorders. “You might not see withdrawal, you might not see the craving, which are the hallmark symptoms for dependence,” says Dr. Taskiran. “But the impact in his social life and academic life, or in terms of his #mentalwellbeing, might still be large.”

Why #substanceuse makes #depression and #anxiety worse

“Self-medicating” with recreational #drugs and #alcohol works temporarily to alleviate symptoms of #anxiety or #depression because they affect the same brain regions that the disorders do. But the result is that #teens feel even worse when not using.  That’s one reason #substanceuse is a risk factor for #suicide in #kids with #depression, Dr. Taskiran notes.

 Another negative effect of #substanceuse is that it undermines treatment. First, it diminishes a #teenager’s engagement in therapy, and hence its effectiveness. Second, if she is taking prescription medication, it may lower the effectiveness of that medication. “The #drugs and the medications target the same areas of the brain,” explains Dr. Taskiran. When meds have to compete with #drugs or #alcohol, they are less effective. “Also, it’s not uncommon with #kids who are using substances to be noncompliant with their meds.”

#Psychosis and #substanceuse

Michael Birnbaum, MD, is a #psychiatrist who heads an early treatment program for young people who have had a first psychotic episode, usually signaling the onset of #schizophrenia. Dr. Birnbaum estimates that at least 50 percent of his #patients have at least some history of #drug and #alcohol use. Getting a handle on #substanceuse is important for the recovery process, he says. “Folks who are still using are more likely to struggle with ongoing psychotic symptoms, and also are more likely to have a relapse.”

Most of the people who come to the early treatment program have just come from a hospitalization, he notes,  and they are  eager to make sure that doesn’t happen again. “So part of the discussion is how do we prevent a relapse?” he continues. At Dr. Birnbaum’s program, clinicians work to understand what #substanceuse was doing for the #patient. “It may seem obvious to us,” he says. “’Okay, you need to stop using now.’ But there may be other reasons for continued use that, to the patient, outweigh the risks.”

Dr. Taskiran echoes that approach. “The last thing I’d say from the get-go to one of my #patients is, ‘#Marijuana is bad for you,’ because the #kid has heard that from #teachers, #parents, TV, everywhere. So instead what I say is, ‘What is it doing for you? What are you getting out of it?’”

All #behavior serves a purpose, even if it’s self-injurious or risky #behavior. “If you’re trying to take something away from a #teenager, you need to replace it with something,” says Dr. Taskiran. “So instead of just saying, ‘Don’t do that, it’s bad for you,’ we’re trying to replace the need for substance with a coping strategy, with tools for coping without the substances.”
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2023/02/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-mentalhealthdisorders-and-teen-substanceuse/

#JamesDonaldson On #MentalHealth – #MentalHealthDisorders And #Teen #SubstanceUse

Why it's especially tempting — and risky — for #kids with emotional or #behavioral challenges

Writer: Caroline Miller

Clinical Expert: Sarper Taskiran, MD

What You'll Learn

- Why is #substanceuse more dangerous for #teens with #mentalhealthdisorders?

- Why do #teens with #mentalhealthdisorders use substances?

- Why does #substanceuse make a #mentalhealthdisorder worse?

- Quick Read

- Full Article

- Why are #kids with #mentalhealthdisorders prone to #substanceuse?

- Why is #alcohol use riskier for #teenagers?

- Why #teenagers get addicted sooner

- Why #substanceuse makes #depression and #anxiety worse

- #Psychosis and #substanceuse

When #teenagers are upset or angry, they often turn to #alcohol or #drug use to help them manage their feelings. While #adults do this too, a #teenager’s brain is still developing. So if teens use #drugs or #alcohol to feel better, they’ll run into problems more quickly than #adults.

Drinking or smoking #marijuana can help make #hopelessness, #anxiety, irritability and negative thoughts disappear quickly. But over time, they’ll make them worse. #Teens also become addicted more quickly than #adults. This is especially true if they have #mentalhealthdisorders.

If they’re not treated, almost half of #kids with #mentalhealthdisorders will end up having a #substanceusedisorder. This can make it harder to treat their #mentalhealth. It can also impact their future.

#Alcohol affects #teenagers differently. Instead of slowing them down, #alcohol can make #teens feel more energetic, do riskier things and get more aggressive. Drinking is even more dangerous for #kids with #ADHD because they’re already impulsive. #Substanceuse can also make depressed #teenagers more prone to impulsive #suicidalbehavior.

#Substanceuse is also a problem for #teens or young #adults with #schizophrenia. If a person with #schizophrenia uses drugs or #alcohol, they’re more likely to have psychotic episodes.

Experts note that to encourage #teens to reduce or stop #substanceuse, it’s important give them other coping strategies to manage their problems without turning to substances.

When #teenagers are struggling with emotional problems, they often turn to #alcohol or #drug use to help them manage painful or difficult feelings. In this they are not different from #adults. But because #adolescent brains are still developing, the results of #teenage “self-medication” can be more immediately problematic.

In the short term, #substanceuse can help alleviate unwanted #mentalhealthsymptoms like #hopelessness, #anxiety, irritability and negative thoughts. But in the longer term it exacerbates them, and often ends in abuse or dependence. #Substanceuse escalates from experimentation to a serious disorder much faster in #adolescents than it does in #adults, and that progression is more likely to happen in #kids with #mentalhealthdisorders than in other #kids.

“The rule of thumb is that almost half of #kids with #mentalhealthdisorders, if they’re not treated, will end up having a #substanceusedisorder,” explains Sarper Taskiran, MD, a #child and #adolescent #psychiatrist at the #ChildMindInstitute.  A 2016 study of 10,000 #adolescents found that two-thirds of those who developed #alcohol or #substanceusedisorders had experienced at least one #mentalhealthdisorder.

#Substanceuse also interferes with treatment for #mentalhealthdisorders and worsens the long-term prognosis for a #teenager struggling with one. How can we help these young people avoid the #substanceuse trap when the deck seems to be stacked against them?

#James Donaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.
Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.
Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle

Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,
#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:
From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Why are #kids with #mentalhealthdisorders prone to #substanceuse?

#Kids who are anxious or depressed may feel more emotionally “even” if they drink or smoke #marijuana. For socially anxious kids, it can quiet the #anxiety enough to allow them to function in peer groups. And since their friends do it, it’s not stigmatized the way taking medication is.

“Pre-gaming is a lot about #anxiety,” notes Jeanette Friedman, MSW, who works with families of #adolescents with #substanceuse problems. “The #kids are saying ‘Let’s go have some fun before we go to the real party.’ But in fact, most of them feel like they need it to calm down enough so they can walk into a group where they’re going to feel exposed and criticized.”

A #teen with #anxiety might start by smoking #marijuana to calm down before social events, and soon find himself smoking every morning just to get to #school. “I’ve had very stressed-out #kids say, ‘I get high before I go to #school because I’m so anxious when I think about the start of the #school day,’ says Ms. Friedman. “‘If I smoke a little weed, I don’t feel so anxious.’”

#Kids who are depressed may use #alcohol or #marijuana to cheer themselves up, Dr. Taskiran notes, and blunt the irritability that is a symptom of #adolescent #depression. “They know there’s something wrong with them,” he says. “They’re not taking pleasure in things, they’re not feeling happy. So if their peers are offering a #drug that makes you happy, that’s often the first thing they turn to.” #Substanceuse can quiet negative thoughts that plague depressed #kids.

It’s also common for #children with #mentalhealth or #learningdisorders to develop #self-esteem problems, a sense that there’s something wrong with them or that they’re flawed. When these #children reach #adolescence, with its focus on fitting in, notes Ms. Friedman, “they really want to be normal and they don’t feel normal. And that means they’re more vulnerable to somebody passing around a #drug, because they’re just trying to feel better.”

Why is #alcohol use riskier for #teenagers?

#Alcohol affects #teens differently from #adults. While #adults tend to get more subdued and slowed down by #alcohol, in #adolescents it’s the opposite. They tend to become more energetic, engage in more risky #behavior and get more aggressive.

Dr. Taskiran uses the example of driving.  “When #adults drink and drive you worry about slowing of the reflexes and lapses in attention, like missing a stop sign,” he explains. “But with #adolescents, we’re worried that they’re going to get more activated. It’s not that they won’t see the red light, but they might try to run it.”

This is especially dangerous for #kids with #ADHD, who are already impulsive. And #substanceuse makes depressed #teenagers more prone to impulsive #suicidalbehavior.  “The #adolescent will still be depressed,” says Dr. Taskiran, “but the things that usually hold him back won’t be there while he’s intoxicated, like love for family or the belief that he’s going to get better.”

Why #teenagers get addicted sooner

#Adolescent #alcohol or #drug use accelerates very quickly when an untreated #mentalhealthdisorder is present. ”Within months we can see problematic use,” says Dr. Taskiran.

Why are they different than #adults? In the #adolescent brain, pathways between regions are still developing. This is why #teens learn new things quickly. This “plasticity” means the brain easily habituates to #drugs and #alcohol. “If you start drinking at 30, you don’t get addicted nearly as fast as if you start drinking at 15,” adds Ms. Friedman.

#Alcohol and #drugs also affect the same brain regions that are at play in #behaviordisorders like #ADHD and #ODD, says Dr. Taskiran. #Teenagers who have those disorders get more satisfaction from the substance — and are more likely to become addicted. “Biologically they get more from the drug,” he adds, “so that’s why they get more hooked on it.”

It’s important to know that #substanceuse can have disrupt a young person’s life even if he is not technically dependent on the drug. This is especially true for #youth with #mentalhealthdisorders. “You might not see withdrawal, you might not see the craving, which are the hallmark symptoms for dependence,” says Dr. Taskiran. “But the impact in his social life and academic life, or in terms of his #mentalwellbeing, might still be large.”

Why #substanceuse makes #depression and #anxiety worse

“Self-medicating” with recreational #drugs and #alcohol works temporarily to alleviate symptoms of #anxiety or #depression because they affect the same brain regions that the disorders do. But the result is that #teens feel even worse when not using.  That’s one reason #substanceuse is a risk factor for #suicide in #kids with #depression, Dr. Taskiran notes.

 Another negative effect of #substanceuse is that it undermines treatment. First, it diminishes a #teenager’s engagement in therapy, and hence its effectiveness. Second, if she is taking prescription medication, it may lower the effectiveness of that medication. “The #drugs and the medications target the same areas of the brain,” explains Dr. Taskiran. When meds have to compete with #drugs or #alcohol, they are less effective. “Also, it’s not uncommon with #kids who are using substances to be noncompliant with their meds.”

#Psychosis and #substanceuse

Michael Birnbaum, MD, is a #psychiatrist who heads an early treatment program for young people who have had a first psychotic episode, usually signaling the onset of #schizophrenia. Dr. Birnbaum estimates that at least 50 percent of his #patients have at least some history of #drug and #alcohol use. Getting a handle on #substanceuse is important for the recovery process, he says. “Folks who are still using are more likely to struggle with ongoing psychotic symptoms, and also are more likely to have a relapse.”

Most of the people who come to the early treatment program have just come from a hospitalization, he notes,  and they are  eager to make sure that doesn’t happen again. “So part of the discussion is how do we prevent a relapse?” he continues. At Dr. Birnbaum’s program, clinicians work to understand what #substanceuse was doing for the #patient. “It may seem obvious to us,” he says. “’Okay, you need to stop using now.’ But there may be other reasons for continued use that, to the patient, outweigh the risks.”

Dr. Taskiran echoes that approach. “The last thing I’d say from the get-go to one of my #patients is, ‘#Marijuana is bad for you,’ because the #kid has heard that from #teachers, #parents, TV, everywhere. So instead what I say is, ‘What is it doing for you? What are you getting out of it?’”

All #behavior serves a purpose, even if it’s self-injurious or risky #behavior. “If you’re trying to take something away from a #teenager, you need to replace it with something,” says Dr. Taskiran. “So instead of just saying, ‘Don’t do that, it’s bad for you,’ we’re trying to replace the need for substance with a coping strategy, with tools for coping without the substances.”

https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2023/02/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-mentalhealthdisorders-and-teen-substanceuse/

Start by listening without judgment, not trying to 'fix' them

Writer: Stephanie Dowd, PsyD

Clinical Experts: Stephanie Dowd, PsyD , David Friedlander, PsyD

What You'll Learn

- What are the signs of #depression in #teenagers?

- What can #parents to do to help #teenagers who may be depressed?

- How is #depression treated?

- Quick Read

- Full Article

- Be supportive

- Accentuate the positive

- Helping #kids with #depression get treatment

- Why #depression treatment might not be working

- Taking care of yourself

Signs that a #teen might be depressed include being sad or irritable, losing interest in things that they used enjoy, changes in eating or sleeping habits, and low energy. Feeling worthless or hopeless about the future is a big warning sign. And a drop in grades or trouble concentrating at #school can also be a symptom. If your #teen shows more than a few of these signs and they don’t go away after a couple of weeks, they may have #depression. And while you can’t make them want to get better, there are some things you can do to help.

#Kids who are grumpy and down can be frustrating, especially if they don’t seem to be trying to help themselves. But it’s important to let them know you’re taking their feelings seriously. For example, you could say, “It seems like you’ve been really down lately. Is that true?” Make it clear you want to understand what’s troubling them without trying to jump in and solve the problem.

Ask questions and try not to judge. By listening, you’re letting them know that you hear them and you’re trying to understand. Remember, you’re not there to “fix” them. Listening without judgment will make them feel more comfortable reaching out when they’re ready to talk.

#Depression can make doing even the smallest things more difficult. Make a point of noticing even simple positive things your #teen does, like going to #school or doing the dishes. And highlight ways they’re taking care of themselves, like doing homework, spending time with family, or keeping up with friends. Remember, this is not the time to be critical. They don’t want to feel this way. If they could snap their fingers and feel better, they would.

Try to give them opportunities to do things without being critical. Instead of saying, “Honey, you should really get up and do something,” you might say: “I’m going to do an errand. Do you want to come with me? Maybe we can get lunch together.”

Getting depressed #teens into treatment can be tricky. If your #child doesn’t want to go, be #patient and persistent. Give them space, and let them know you’re there when they’re ready. When your #teen is ready, let them choose a #therapist they connect with. Make sure that whoever they decide on practices a therapy that works well for #depression. #Interpersonaltherapy (#IPT), #cognitivebehavioraltherapy (#CBT), and #dialecticalbehavioraltherapy (#DBT) are often good choices. Many #teens with #depression also benefit from medication.

If your #child is already in treatment but it isn’t helping, it may be time to make a change. This could be a different course of treatment, a new medication, or changing #therapists.

When #kids are young, #parents are used to swooping in and rescuing them whenever they need help. As your #kids get older and their problems become more complex, you have to transition into more of a supporting role, and that can be difficult. This is especially true with #teens who are struggling with #depression. They need help to get better, but first they have to want that help.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Signs your #child is depressed:

- Have they been sad or irritable most of the day, most days in a week for at least two weeks?

- Have they lost interest in things that they used to really enjoy?

- Have their eating or sleeping habits changed?

- Do they have very little energy, very little motivation to do much of anything?

- Are they feeling worthless, hopeless about their future, or guilty about things that aren’t their fault?

- Have their grades dropped, or are they finding it difficult to concentrate?

- Have they had thoughts of #suicide? If so it’s crucial you have them evaluated by a #mentalhealthprofessional immediately. If the thoughts are really serious and there is imminent threat, you will need to take them to an ER.

If your #teen shows more than a few of these signs they may have #depression that warrants professional attention. While you can’t make them want to get better, there are some things that you as their #parent can do. And it starts with simply being there for them.

Be supportive

One of the most important things you can do for your #teen is to work on strengthening your relationship. Try to build empathy and understanding by putting yourself in their shoes. You might be frustrated that they seem down and irritable a lot of the time and don’t seem to be doing much of anything to help themselves. But if there isn’t much in their life that is making them happy, or something intensely disappointing has happened to them, it’s understandable that they might avoid things they used to enjoy and retreat to their room. #Depression makes even doing the smallest things more difficult.

Try to validate their emotions, not their unhealthy #behavior. For example, you could say, “It seems as though you’ve been really down lately. Is that true?” Make it clear that you want to try to understand what’s troubling them without trying to problem solve.

Be compassionately curious. Ask them questions about their mood gently, without being emotional. Even #parents with the best intentions often don’t realize that their concern can come across as critical rather than loving. Do not be judgmental or try to solve their problems, even if you disagree with their point of view. Listening to them talk about their problems might seem as though you’re highlighting the negative, but in fact, you’re letting them know that you hear them, you see them, and you’re trying to understand — not fix them. People don’t like to be fixed. Listening without judgment will actually make them more likely to view you as an ally and someone they can turn to when they’re ready to talk.

Try also to give them opportunities to do things without being critical of them. Instead of saying, “Honey, you should really get up and do something. How about calling an old friend?” you might say, “I’m going to the mall to do an errand. Let me know if you want to come with me, and maybe we can get lunch together.”

For some #parents, this can feel passive, as though you’re not doing enough. But being there for them and communicating your acceptance is exactly what they needs from you right now. It’s actually a very active way to strengthen your relationship.

Accentuate the positive

Make sure you’re noticing the positive things your #teen does, too. Going to school, holding down a part-time job, doing the dishes or picking up their brother from soccer practice: These are all good things they’re doing, and it’s important to recognize them rather than thinking, “This is what they should be doing.” We all like to be appreciated and recognized for doing a good job even when it’s expected of us.

Ask yourself how many positive things have you said to them today? How many negative things have you said? How many times have you highlighted their problems or tried to fix them? The positive should outweigh the negative. Let them know that you’re proud of them, that they’re doing a good job if you see them taking care of themselves, doing homework, interacting with the family, or doing other things that take effort. They’ll likely appreciate that you noticed.

Likewise, you don’t need to mention that you’re disappointed they aren’t hanging out with friends as much or taking the interest they used to in guitar, for example. They probably feel disappointed, too, and don’t need to be reminded of what’s not going well in their life. They don’t want to feel this way. If they could snap their fingers and feel better, they would.

Helping #kids with #depression get treatment

Some #teens will want to go to therapy when you ask them and some won’t. For those who are resistant, know that they aren’t going to suddenly open up to the idea of therapy (or to you) quickly, but you can help guide them towards treatment by opening the door and then waiting patiently for them to walk through it.

Try saying, “I know you’re having a hard time, and I have some ideas of things that could help. If you’d like to talk with me about them, let me know. I’m here for you.” It’s also a good idea to ask them if they has any suggestions on how you might be able to help. You might be surprised with what they have to say.

Be aware that your #teen might tell you to back off. That’s fine; it’s their way — albeit a slightly irritable one — of telling you that they need space. It’s normal for #teenagers to want independence, and it’s important for you to respect that. You can respond by saying, “I’ll give you more space, but know that I’m here for you if you ever want to talk or hear my suggestions.”

If they do come to you wanting help, be prepared. Do your research. Find two or three #therapists they can interview and tell them that they can choose the one that they feel most comfortable with, and think will help the most. Finding a #therapist who is a good fit is extremely important, and making the choice theirs will help them feel ownership over their own treatment, which is extremely important to #teens and sets the stage for effective therapy.

It’s also important to know that there are several different kinds of therapy that might be helpful for your #teen, including some well-studied #behavioral therapies. Interpersonal therapy (IPT),#cognitivebehavioraltherapy (#CBT), and #dialecticalbehavioraltherapy (#DBT) have all been shown to be helpful for #teenagers with #depression. Make sure that your #child has had a thorough evaluation that includes treatment recommendations to help guide you.

Many #teens with #depression benefit from medication, such as an anti-depressant. While therapy alone may be effective with mild to moderate depression, the best results are usually gained with a combination of medication and therapy. If #depression medication is a consideration, it is strongly recommended that you make an appointment with a board certified child and #adolescent #psychiatrist (rather than a general #physician) for a consultation.

Why #depression treatment might not be working

If your #child already is in treatment but it isn’t helping, ask them why they think that is. What isn’t helpful or what don’t they like about therapy? Are there things about therapy they do like? Maybe you can work together to find a #therapist who does more of the things they like. If you do consider changing #therapists, it’s important to discuss this with their current #therapist before the decision to change is made. Many times, the therapy and/or the therapeutic relationship can be improved.

Keep in mind that therapy usually isn’t effective if the person in treatment isn’t committed to it, or is doing it to please someone else. Your #child should want to get better for themselves. Unfortunately, sometimes people have to get worse before they want help. But the good news is that if you lay the groundwork by strengthening your connection now, they’ll be more likely to turn to you for support when they’re finally ready.

Taking care of yourself

Lastly, it’s important to make sure that you’re taking care of yourself. It can be emotionally and physically exhausting to be a #parent of someone who is struggling with #depression. Know that you are not alone, and get support for yourself. Make sure that you make time to do things you enjoy and go out with friends. The phrase: happy mommy (or daddy) = happy baby (read: #teenager) still applies!
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2023/02/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-what-to-do-if-you-think-your-teenager-is-depressed-2/

BY BONNIE EVIE GIFFORD

What is it, why does it happen, and what signs should I be looking out for? We share everything you need to know about passive #suicidalideation

Passive #suicidalideation is something that many of us experience, but few seriously talk about. Perhaps the thought has crossed your mind, “I wish I could just fall asleep and not wake up,” or “I wish I could die, so I don’t have to deal with this.” These are examples of passive #suicidalideation and, while they are not active plans, and often focus on ways in which someone may die rather than actively cause their own death (such as thoughts of death through an accident or natural causes, rather than #suicide), these thoughts can be not only worrying, but can lead to engaging in riskier #behavior without being conscious of it.

#Suicidalideation isn’t an isolated event – it can be a symptom of other #mentalhealthissues, such as severe #depression, or manic #depression for those with a #bipolardisorder diagnosis. Here, we’ll explain more about the different types of #suicidalideation, warning signs to look out for, and, crucially, how to then find help.

What’s the difference between passive and active #suicidalideation?

Having #suicidalthoughts is a spectrum. For some people, these thoughts may be active: they think about #suicide, and may have developed a plan for what they will do. They want to die. For others, it may be passive: they wish they were dead or could die, but do not have any concrete plans.

Neither kind of #suicidalideation should be dismissed. You are still at risk of harm if you have passive #suicidalthoughts.

Intent and motivation can change quickly, meaning you may not feel at risk now, but that could change before you realise it or have time to seek help. Studies have suggested that if you experience high levels of #depression and suicidality, thoughts of passive and active ideation have the potential to become more severe and dangerous. Experiencing physical illness, a significant decline in your #mentalhealth, or an unpredictable event (losing your job, a particularly bad day, fighting with a loved one) could trigger your thoughts to become active.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

How many people experience passive #suicidalideation?

Passive #suicidalthoughts are more common than many of us realise. Worldwide, around 9% of us will experience suicidal ideation at some point in our lives. Within the past 12 months, that sat at around 2%. One US study found that 4% of #adults aged 18 and over have thought about #suicide, with those aged 18–25 the most likely to have had such thoughts within the past 12 months.

As of 2020, around 10 in every 100,000 deaths were contributed to #suicide in England. For #men, that rate was much higher (15.3 per 100,000) compared to #women (4.9 per 100,000). #Men aged 45–49 have the highest #suicide rate (23.8 per 100,000). Worldwide, the #WorldHealthOrganization estimates that one in every 100 deaths is a result of #suicide.

All this to say, #suicide is something that has touched many lives, and it’s something that we need to take seriously.

Are some people at more risk than others?

While #men are three times more likely to complete #suicide, research suggests that #women show higher rates of #suicidal thinking, non-fatal #suicidalbehavior, and #suicideattempts.

You may be at higher risk for #suicidalideations if:

- You have a personal history of #mentalillness (particularly #depression, #bipolardisorder, or other mood-based disorders).

- There is a family history of #mentalillness (#suicidalthoughts or attempts, #depression).

- You have experienced substance addiction.

- You have a history of abuse, or have experienced significant #trauma.

- You exhibit impulsive #behaviors or increased aggression.

- You have a physical illness.

- You have experienced a major loss (death of a close friend or family member).

- You have limited access to healthcare or a support network.

Could I be suicidal and not realise it?

Sometimes people can struggle to recognise warning signs of #suicidalthoughts or #behaviors. Signs that people often overlook can include:

- Feelings of being empty, hopeless, or like you have no way out of your problems.

- Strong feelings of guilt or shame.

- Believing that others would be better off without you.

- Becoming withdrawn or isolated socially.

- Unexplained changes in how you sleep (e.g. struggling to get out of bed, sleeping more, sleeping less, staying up all night then struggling to cope the next day).

- Becoming emotionally distant from others (e.g. seeming indifferent when faced with emotional situations like the loss of a pet, or when receiving particularly good or bad news).

Do passive #suicidalthoughts need to be treated?

Seeking help and advice is recommended. Speaking with your GP can be the first step towards getting a full assessment and diagnosis. This can help you to access the right kind of help and support, better understand what may have led to you feeling this way, and find new ways of coping with these feelings, and addressing any triggers.

Experiencing any level of desire for death can lead you to unconsciously act in a way that may be riskier to your health and wellbeing. Even when passive #suicidalthoughts remain passive, they suggest a level of unhappiness and discontent in your life, and risk negatively impacting your overall wellbeing and quality of life.

Reaching out for help is the first step to overcoming these thoughts and feelings. You don’t have to live with these thoughts, and you also don’t have to face them alone.

How do you overcome passive #suicidalideation?

There are a number of options that may be recommended, depending on your circumstances, symptoms, and what services are available in your local area.

Speak with your GP

Talking with your GP is often the first step towards getting a referral for specialist #mentalhealthservices in your area, as well as talking through any medication options that may be worth considering. They may highlight local support groups you could access.

Medication

For some people, your GP may prescribe antidepressants or anti-#anxiety medication to help decrease symptoms while you are working through the underlying causes that are triggering your thoughts in therapy.

Talking therapy

Counselling (therapy) is often highly recommended, as this can help you to identify the complex issues that may be causing the way you are feeling, help you to understand your thoughts and feelings better, as well as introduce you to new ways to manage your thoughts in a more productive or useful way.

#Dialecticalbehaviortherapy (#DBT) in particular can be helpful for those experiencing #suicidalthoughts, as it uses acceptance and change techniques that can help you better understand why you’re feeling this way, and what you can do to help yourself. Other types of therapy may also be suggested, such as #cognitivebehavioraltherapy (#CBT).

Peer support

Talking with others who have had similar experiences can be a huge help. Reaching out to find online support networks can be the easiest way of doing this, or there may be support groups in your area.

Create a safety plan

Typically suggested for when you have active #suicidalthoughts, it can be helpful to have one in place just in case. A safety plan may include listing any warning signs you or others can look out for, writing down coping strategies that could help, as well as listing the contact details for who you want to be contacted in the case of an emergency. Ensuring you know the steps you need to take to keep yourself safe can help you to feel more prepared if your thoughts do take a concerning turn.

Speak with your loved ones

Talking to your friends and family can help you to better understand how you are feeling, as well as to let them know that you are struggling. If you are worried that your thoughts or feelings may have been causing you to withdraw from others, this can be a helpful way to reach back out again to them.

What can I do if a loved one is experiencing passive #suicidalideations?

If you’re worried about someone, one of the most important things you can do is listen to them, without accidental judgement, or minimising how they are feeling – ask questions, and ensure they know that you are there to offer support.

Don’t promise to keep their #suicidalideation a secret. Doing so can not only harm their trust in others if you do need to speak out and seek help on their behalf, but it may also make you hesitate. Encourage them to seek help, but avoid pushing them before they are ready. Offer to drive them or go with them if they feel worried about going alone.

If you are concerned about their immediate safety, call 999 or take them directly to A&E.

If you are worried about your immediate safety, go to the nearest A&E department, call 999 if you can’t get to a hospital, or ask someone to call 999 or take you to the hospital.

If you just want to talk to someone or feel like A&E isn’t an option, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123 and someone will be there to listen without judgement, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

To find out more about the signs and symptoms of #suicidalthoughts, how they can make you feel, and how you can access help, visit Counselling Directory or speak to a qualified #counsellor.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2023/02/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-what-is-passive-suicidalideation-and-how-can-i-spot-the-signs/

By Katie Couric Media

And why the rates differ between older #men and #women.

In recent years, there has been a growing focus on the troubling rise of #mentalhealthissues in the young #adult population. This attention is vital — but there’s another age group that witnesses staggeringly high #suiciderates and is receiving much less attention, and that’s the older population of #adults in #America.

According to the #CentersforDiseaseControlandPrevention, #men who are 85 years or older have the highest #suicide rate of any group in the country — more specifically, older #white #males. To put that into perspective, #suicide is the 11th leading cause of death for #Americans, but #white #men over the age of 65 commit #suicide at almost three times that rate.

Perhaps even more astonishingly, the #American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) has suggested that this rate is under-reported by as much as 40 percent, because of “silent suicides,” which is when the cause of a self-inflicted death is declared as something other than #suicide, like overdoses or self-starvation.

This inspires an obvious question: Why?

Why #male #suiciderates are higher than #female #suiciderates

The first conclusion you come to might be as obvious as the question itself. People are living longer than ever before in human history, and with that longevity can come chronic disease and illness. Some #elderly people might choose #suicide as a means of ending that pain or those endless treatments — and alternatively, this is why more and more states are legalizing #physician-assisted #suicide as a means of dying with agency and dignity.

But this doesn’t explain why #elderly #men die by #suicide at significantly higher rates than #elderly #women.

This #gender disparity persists in every single age group: #Men of all ages consistently die by #suicide at higher rates than #women. And yet, there’s a statistic that further complicates this disparity: Women attempt #suicide at higher rates than #men.

The main explanation for this quandary, according to BBC, is that #malesuicide methods are more violent than #female #suicide methods, and #male #suicides more frequently use #firearms as a method.

Another explanation has to do with intent: One study on the topic suggested that #men tend to have stronger feelings of suicidal intent than #women. According to experts, this could come down to a matter of psychology — specifically the differing ways we teach #males versus #females to process and engage with their own emotions.

“We tell #boys that ‘boys don’t cry’,” Colman O’Driscoll, former executive director of operations and development at an Australian #suicideprevention charity, told BBC. “We condition #boys from a very young age to not express emotion, because to express emotion is to be ‘weak’.”

As a result of that socialization, men might not feel the same ability to express their #mentalhealthissues to friends and family, or to even get medical help.

Why #suiciderates for the #elderly are much more likely to result in death

Another alarming statistic is that #suicideattempts are much more likely to result in death in older generations than they are in younger generations.

According to the #SuicidePrevention Resource Center, there are multiple reasons for this unfortunate trend. First, older people tend to plan more carefully than younger people and use deadlier methods.

Second, older people tend not to receive as much attention as an #adolescent might receive, which means their loved ones might not notice #mentalhealth red flags. Devastatingly this also means that the elderly are also less likely to be rescued or discovered before death.

The generally increased frailty of older people means that they’re less likely to recover from a #suicideattempt than a younger person.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

What we can do as a society to better support our older generations

One of the major sources of unhappiness and #depression for older people is #loneliness, according to Thomas Young, MD, chief medical officer and founder of Proem #Behavioral Health.

“We have a #loneliness epidemic among aging populations who are too often disconnected from the community,” he explains. “#Socialisolation negatively impacts their #mentalhealth with profound and far-reaching repercussions for individuals, families, and communities.”

One solution for this issue, luckily, is pretty straightforward. If you have an older person in your life, like a #parent or a grandparent, you can make an effort to reach out to them, spend time with them, and make it clear that they are a beloved part of your life.

“People of every age — but especially older people — need to be connected to other people,” Dr. Young says. “They need an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings, and a sense of community that’s often lacking.”

If you are the one who feels that sense of #loneliness and #isolation, then it’s also worth remembering that you can reach out to your loved ones and let them know how you’re feeling.

“Everyone, including older people, must take the often difficult step of reaching out to others,” Dr. Young explains. “Connection is critical to healing. Whether reaching out to a family member, #mentalhealthexpert, healthcare facilitator, or other resources, taking that first step opens the gateway to health and healing.”

Anyone contemplating #suicide should contact the #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline by dialing #998. This three-digit dialing code is staffed 24/7 and will connect people in suicidal crises or emotional distress to support services. 
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2023/02/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-the-forgotten-generation-why-suiciderates-are-alarmingly-high-with-older-adults/