Depression vs the Blues

Winter is a tough time of year for teens. The novelty of a new school year has worn off, the holidays have come and gone, and uncooperative weather pushes our youths indoors. They yearn for Spring Break, but it’s months away.

This sometimes-dark season is when we should keep a closer eye on our teens. It’s so easy for them to disengage and slip into depression. And it’s our responsibility to ensure they’re active physically, mentally, and spiritually. Though it may not seem like it now, the teen years are fleeting and we don’t have much time to be a daily positive influence in their lives.

How can you tell if your teen is depressed or just has the blues? According to WebMD, symptoms of depression include:

• Appearing sad or tearful
• Significant weight loss or gain
• Inability to sleep or excessive sleeping
• Unusual (by teen standards) restlessness or irritability
• Indecisiveness
• Mentions of death or suicide

If you notice more than three of these symptoms in your teen over a period of several weeks, I recommend you open an honest conversation with them and, if necessary, consult their primary care physician about the possibility of involving a counselor specializing in teen mental health.

My pastor spoke on the topic of counseling a few weeks ago. He pointed out that most Christians think it’s wrong to seek counseling for depression, that those who are depressed should pray more and rely on God to provide happiness. My pastor and I believe that God works through counselors to help those who might be depressed find their inner joy and avoid impulsive outcomes, like cutting or suicide.

I’m a firm believer in God’s promises to us as parents and to our teens. He loves us and wants us to prosper. Please take the following scriptures to heart and share them with your teens to support them through these seemingly endless winter months.

The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.
Exodus 14:14

The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Deuteronomy 31:8

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Isaiah 40:29

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7

I gathered a longer list of encouraging scripture for your teens and scripture for you to pray over your teens. You’re welcome to print out these PDFs and share them with your friends, family, and small groups. And if you lean on other reassuring verses, please comment below. I’d love to share them on Facebook and Instagram.