Yvonnie Bailey- Davidson

Dear Counsellor:

My son is 16 years old. He has been telling me that he feels depressed, but he's not sure what the cause is. His schoolwork has started to decline and I don't know what to do.

- Claudette

Dear Claudette,

Depression is a fairly common condition among adolescents. Depression can be caused by biological problems or psychosocial issues. It means that you should take your son to a medical doctor to be examined and have certain tests done. This will identify a biological cause for the depression. The psychosocial issues are many and varied. A psychiatrist can help your son to heal.

Teenagers depend on their peers for a lot of things, and when they feel rejected or discriminated against, they can feel unhappy about the experience. Peer influence can be positive or negative. Too often, we focus on negative peer pressure.

Adolescents are developing at a fast pace and sometimes they are unsure of their actions. Whenever they share with each other, they are able to receive the help they need. Adolescents also need adults to act as mentors and caregivers to provide guidance, direction and encouragement.

Another reason for depression in adolescents is difficult classwork and examinations. School can be difficult, and some people do poorly on examinations. Some students require the help of tutors to gain the necessary grades. Examinations require the necessary preparation, diligence and organisation.

Your son needs to have the syllabus, past papers and textbooks so that he can prepare for the examinations.

Problems

Family problems, girlfriend problems and problems about appearance and body image can affect your son. Adolescents are particularly sensitive about their appearance and body image. They want to have a particular look and skin problems like acne can be detrimental.

Adolescents socialise with their friends and form bonds. When there are problems in these relationships, they become unhappy, angry or frustrated. Sometimes they lack the social skills needed to deal with these relationships.

When you have an adolescent at home, you need to encourage open dialogue so that your teenager can express his feelings and experiences. Teenagers need to make wise decisions and solve problems creatively.

Counselling and medication can treat depression. Take your son to the psychiatrist and he will determine which treatment is suitable for your son. Pray for your son and encourage him to go to church with you. The spiritual aspect of life is important and vital to our existence.

Sexual problems

Dear Counsellor:

I read your articles every week and find them inspirational and helpful. I have a sexual problem and have become depressed about it.

- Margaret

Dear Margaret,

Many thanks for reading this column. Sexual problems are very common in both males and females. People who are depressed have sexual difficulties and people who have sexual problems get depressed. As you can see, it's the chicken-and-egg situation. Speak to a psychiatrist about your problem. You will be able to identify the issues that are causing you to be depressed and not to be enjoying sex.

Common condition

Depression is a common condition and can cause problems in relationships. Some of the symptoms of depression are lack of energy, lack of enjoyment, sleep problems, sexual problems and appetite problems. Some people have vague aches and pains and generally feel unwell.

There are various triggers for depression like stress, loss and problems. We need to think about the issues and devise strategies to deal with them. Cognitive therapy is very helpful to deal with the negativity associated with depression.

Contact Dr. Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson at 978-8602 or 791-1778, or email yvonniebd@hotmail.com.