A Conversation about Anxiety and Depression in Children and Teens

Description

First Presbyterian Church of Wheaton invites middle and high school youth and parents of children of all ages to a free presentation to explain anxiety and depression, causes and symptoms, and treatment options on Wednesday, November 2, 2016, from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health challenges faced by teenagers and younger children. Those struggling with anxiety or depression often feel overwhelmed, alone, and stuck without any direction. Anxiety and depression can affect their ability to succeed in school, enjoy activities, and develop healthy relationships. 

When it comes to mental health difficulties in young people, it can help to think about things in terms of risk and protective factors. Every child and family will experience difficulties and challenges (risk factors), and each will have some resources and strengths to help through difficult times (protective factors).

Life is full of challenges for everyone, but some of us face more challenges than others. Generally speaking, the more risk factors there are in someone’s life, the higher their chances of developing a mental health condition.

This doesn’t mean that every young person who faces challenges will experience mental health difficulties. Different combinations of risk factors affect us in different ways, and support from family and friends can help young people build resilience – the ability to cope with life’s difficulties.  As part of this conversation, parents and teens will separately meet with trained credentialed counselors to explore the issues more fully.