While depression can make things feel hopeless, having loving support from family can really make a difference.
One of the most meaningful parts of being a parent to an adult child may be watching them navigate adulthood. Whether that could be mentoring them as they pursue a new career or walking them down the aisle as they get married, there may be so many memorable moments to share as adults.
But even with almost all the parenting experience in the world, nothing can be easy about watching your child navigate the symptoms of depression. As a parent, however, you can take steps to support your child so that they can get the help they need to start feeling better.
Below, we’ll explore ways that parents can help an adult child living with depression, including how to find professional support and some of the available treatment options to explore.
Depression can make it difficult to socialize, engage in work and school tasks, or take care of everyday responsibilities. However, for adults with depression, having a solid foundation of support can go a long way in reducing some of the effects that this condition can have.
If you’re the parent of a child who lives with the symptoms of depression, here are just a few meaningful ways that you can emotionally support them.
Open a line of communication
One of the best ways to help someone with depression is to open up the floor for them to communicate honestly without the fear of judgment.
Open communication can validate your child’s thoughts and feelings and help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. And remember, communication doesn’t always have to be just talking — spending time or doing other activities together can also provide chances to communicate openly.
Be empathetic and understanding
If you’ve never experienced feelings of depression yourself before, empathy and understanding can go a long way in validating what your child’s going through.
For example, sometimes, depression might cause your child to act in ways you don’t expect or understand, like not cleaning the house, socializing with friends, or going to work or school. But depression isn’t a choice — and acknowledging that fact can help you feel more empathetic and understanding toward what your child’s experiencing.
Educate and reduce the stigma
Reading and learning more about depression is a great way to educate yourself on the condition and reduce mental health stigma.
Understanding what depression is and what it looks like can help you support your child without judgment, which makes it more likely that they’ll even reach out in the first place. Reducing the stigma and educating others can also encourage your child to reach out for help instead of hiding or living in shame.
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting many people in the United States and worldwide. With the effect that depression can have on quality of life, support from loved ones — including parents — can be important.
If you have an adult child who lives with the symptoms of depression, providing support, encouragement, and accountability can make a huge difference in their recovery journey.
