Keep Perspective in the Midst of Chaos
A parent once said that being a parent was like being in the vortex of a tornado. The wind is twirling and you are trying to stop everything from being caught up in it. Sometimes, you can reach out and reduce some of the chaos, but for the most part you have little control.
This metaphor is correct. In today's world, parents are under even more pressure than ever before. You are bombarded with work, school, family, finances, housework, and activities. Just when you think you've got it all under control, something happens and your world explodes. When you have a child who is depressed, you want to make sure he is protected from anything that might make him worse, but you can't. Keeping your perspective will enable you to do what is best for your child.
Take the Pressure Off
When the pressure gets to be too much, give yourself and your child a break. Find a way to tune out the world for a few minutes. Taking time out will save both of you from making a decision or saying something you will regret.
Also, try to keep your child's schedule and yours, too, as predictable and dependable as possible. When a child is depressed, stability is a crucial factor in his recovery. Don't make any sudden, major changes in your routine. Keep situations that may be overwhelming or confusing for your child to a minimum.
Alert!
You may think your depressed child shouldn't see you losing it for fear he will feel responsible and guilty. While you don't want to burden your child with your troubles, it's actually a good thing for him to see that you are not perfect, but that you do know how to cope.
Spend quality time with your child. It doesn't have to be long, just time that is focused only on your child. Kids talk at the strangest times, so make yourself available to listen. You don't want to miss an opportunity to hear what he has to say and how he is feeling. Little moments with your child can teach you a lot.
Don't Lose Your Funny Bone!
It's hard to maintain your sense of humor when your child is depressed and you feel that your life is falling apart. If you think you can survive all of this without your sense of humor, you are wrong! Finding the humor in any situation is a very effective way to reduce stress and help you not take yourself so seriously.
Your child's recovery from depression is going to be gradual, and possibly even slow. You may be spending so much time wishing he was better now that you miss the opportunities for laughter. As the saying goes, laughter is a great medicine. It just so happens that it's good for you and for your child!
