Did you know that suicide is the 2nd leading cause of teen death? We'pd like to think that teens are immune to depression. However, being a young person can be difficult. Supporting a young person during a depression is crucial. Parental support can be the difference between hope and despair. If your child is depressed, don't be angry, dismissive or eager to "fix" the situation. Instead, sit down and listen to what your child has to say. Here's some hints:

Tell your child the behaviors you've noticed that cause you concern.

Assure your child that you love him and that you want to hear whatever he has to say.

Ask your child directly if she's been feeling emotionally down or depressed. How long has she been feeling this badly? Try to sense if her feelings have become more intense over time.

Your child may say things that you do not like or that are difficult to hear. Please try to listen without interrupting or reacting until he is finished.

Temper your reaction - it's okay to express your concern; however anger may cause your child to become defensive. Avoid interrogating or accusing.

Focus on your child's feelings rather than your own. Ask your child how you can help.

Many youth resist talking to their parents. Perhaps you can get another trusted adult, relative, or friend to talk with your child about his feelings. This is not a judgement on you as a parent. Sometimes it is just easier for a teen or adult to talk to someone outside their family or peer circle.