Talking about your mental health is never easy. If you think you have depression, though, telling your parents is the first step to getting treatment. To start on the road to recovery, here are a few tips for broaching the subject with your parents.

3 Tips for Opening Up to Your Parents About Depression

1. Find a Quiet Time

If you don't have any siblings, you may feel comfortable opening up at dinner one night. If, on the other hand, mealtime is always chaotic, wait to start the conversation until you have your parents’ full attention. Driving to sports practice might provide a good opportunity to talk, for example, or later in the evening after your brothers and sisters have gone to bed.

2. Think About What’s Bothering You Most

Your parents will probably ask why you think you’re depressed. Although you may not be comfortable sharing all the symptoms with them, they will need some idea of what’s bothering you so they can arrange for the most appropriate help. If you're not sure how to put your issues into words, researching the symptoms of depression can help.

3. Ask for What You Need

Going into the conversation with specific goals in mind can help you stay on track. This is especially important if you tend to get exasperated with your parents and lash out on occasion. To help the discussion go smoothly, focus on asking for what you need. In other words, don’t let the conversation end without telling them you want to talk to someone about your mental health.

If you or your teen needs treatment for depression, turn to the compassionate providers at Lexington Family Physicians in Davidson County, NC. A family-oriented practice, they are proud to care for patients of all ages, and they offer a broad range of services so they can treat those at all stages of life. From sports physicals and pap smears to nutritional counseling and diabetes management, they do it all. To learn more about their friendly practitioners, visit their website, and then call (336) 249-3329 to make an appointment.