What is Depression - Childhood
Clinical depression is a state of sadness, melancholia or despair that has advanced to the point of being disruptive to an individual's social functioning and/or activities of dail...
Join Now
|
how do I start a conversation with her?
|
Watch this |
| View More Posts Ignore |
On my step daughter'sarm I have noticed she has marks that I am assuming she is cutting. She hides herself in her room more than any of our other children. When her friends call she does not want to talk with them. I have a feeling she is very depressed. I have not said anything to her or her mother about this. I am unsure on what to do, but I know I would like to talk to her about it. I am unfamiliar with depression and self injury. I have four children of my own, all older than she is, and all of them have never done this. I have no idea what to say to her. I would like it if she would be able to talk to me. Advice on how to start a conversation with her will be very helpful. Thank you.
A concerned step father, JO my children are 14-22 she is the youngest. Posted on 02/08/09, 12:02 pm |
| 1 Reply | Add Your Advice |
| View More Posts Ignore |
It tough to give advice when I'm not sure how close you two are. However, it sounds as though she doesn't feel close to anyone right now..From what you've observed it seems as though she is really suffering..
I would approach her when you're sure your conversation won't be disturbed by anyone else. If it can't happen at home, maybe pick her up one day from school and take her for lunch. Don't bring up your concerns right away, start with something light so she begins to feel comfortable. When starting to talk with her for the first time about your worries, start by telling her that you love her and that you've noticed a few things and your worried about her. Tell her that you are here for her and that you really want to help. Hopefully she will open up to you, and if not I wouldn't push her. If she does great, just listen and try not to react to what she says and be sure to show your support. I would try not to give advice to her right away, just to listen will probably make the biggest difference for her right now. I would also try and reach someone in the mental health field at your local children's hospital. They can give you tremendous support and suggestions on how to help her best. I would not mention that you are contacting help to her just yet. Talk to them yourself first if you can. I think she would benifit greatly from some one on one councelling. Also before contacting anyone I would approach her mother with your concerns, and see if she has picked up on it as well. With you both showing support to your step-daughter, it's bound to make some positive changes.. Best of luck! 
|
|
|
|
||
| Add Your Advice |
