Being a specialist in high school photography and a teacher for 20 years, teens hold a special place in my heart. I have 2 children, who are 2 years apart, and were teens just a few years ago. I know the struggles that parents can have trying to reach their teens.

We have all probably noticed lately that there is more teenage depression and teen suicide lately and COVID had a part in that, but life is stressful for teens now a days. Teens may not always show the classic symptoms of crying and sadness. Even though we may have a great relationship with our children, they may not feel comfortable talking to us about depression.

Recently, a good friend lost her son to suicide. They were in our playgroup when we lived in California, so this was devastating to hear. The parents had no idea what their son was suffering from. This young man’s death hit me hard, so I am passing along information to everyone I can. Here are a few steps you can take for your teen. Or you can read the full article here:

https://citylifestyle.com/gilbert/issues/2022-11

1. Reach out to your teen over a casual lunch or quiet time in your home and let them know that they can always talk to you about how they are feeling, but if they feel more comfortable talking to someone else, they can also talk to a teacher, a therapist, an older sibling, a best friend, a religious leader, or a doctor.
2. The Teen Lifeline is a great way for them to talk with a peer and they are local here in AZ. It is available 24/7. Put this up in your home somewhere so it’s easy to see – (602) 248-8336 (TEEN).

Hopefully your teen never has to experience any depression, but having the resources and the steps of actions can be a comfort when a situation arises.