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Teens Mother Is Depressed
- By Miss Emily
- Published 08/15/2011
- Relationships - Teens
Dear Miss Emily,
Lately, I've been feeling sad and depressed. I am a teenager and my mom is in her 40s. Today, my mom was acting depressed as well and I asked her if she was ok, or even if she was mad at me, there was a long pause then she said "no." I don't believe her! She also went to grocery store, and since I am home alone, I've decided to cry and I think I should tell my mom -- but, last time I did that, she got mad at me! Why is my mom so depressed? Is this normal? What is the best way for me to handle this? Is it okay for me to cry? Please, I need help!
-------------------------------Miss Emily's advice-----------------------
Sure it's okay to cry! It's letting out the pent-up frustration you feel because you don't see answers to your problems. The teen years can be tough, and this just adds to it. You are internalizing your mother's depression, and you don't know how to handle it. If your mother is a single parent, that makes it harder to keep it all together. Our economy is in the pits, and maybe she's feeling all the pressure from that, too. And when she said, "No" when you asked her what was wrong, there obviously is something bothering her, but she wanted to not burden you. She's under a lot of pressure. But, that said, so are you! You are her child, and she should be there to help you. If she seems too burdened, however, and you don't think she'll listen to your concerns, go to a trusted adult, another family member and tell him, or her what you have told me. If there is no family member, go to the school counselor and tell him, or her what's going on with you. Depression is not uncommon with teenagers, but it's obvious that you feel helpless to do anything about it because your mother cannot be there for you at this time. Her depression is affecting you in the same way. Do not delay in seeking help. You have a right to work this out to your own satisfaction. As well, be there for your mother, and do your share to help her keep the house in order -- and try to be as understanding as you can. Parents are human too, and they have problems just like everyone else. Be kind, but also set out to get your life in order by seeking the support from a family member whom you can trust.
Lately, I've been feeling sad and depressed. I am a teenager and my mom is in her 40s. Today, my mom was acting depressed as well and I asked her if she was ok, or even if she was mad at me, there was a long pause then she said "no." I don't believe her! She also went to grocery store, and since I am home alone, I've decided to cry and I think I should tell my mom -- but, last time I did that, she got mad at me! Why is my mom so depressed? Is this normal? What is the best way for me to handle this? Is it okay for me to cry? Please, I need help!
-------------------------------Miss Emily's advice-----------------------
Sure it's okay to cry! It's letting out the pent-up frustration you feel because you don't see answers to your problems. The teen years can be tough, and this just adds to it. You are internalizing your mother's depression, and you don't know how to handle it. If your mother is a single parent, that makes it harder to keep it all together. Our economy is in the pits, and maybe she's feeling all the pressure from that, too. And when she said, "No" when you asked her what was wrong, there obviously is something bothering her, but she wanted to not burden you. She's under a lot of pressure. But, that said, so are you! You are her child, and she should be there to help you. If she seems too burdened, however, and you don't think she'll listen to your concerns, go to a trusted adult, another family member and tell him, or her what you have told me. If there is no family member, go to the school counselor and tell him, or her what's going on with you. Depression is not uncommon with teenagers, but it's obvious that you feel helpless to do anything about it because your mother cannot be there for you at this time. Her depression is affecting you in the same way. Do not delay in seeking help. You have a right to work this out to your own satisfaction. As well, be there for your mother, and do your share to help her keep the house in order -- and try to be as understanding as you can. Parents are human too, and they have problems just like everyone else. Be kind, but also set out to get your life in order by seeking the support from a family member whom you can trust.
