4 Unconventional Ways to Help Your Child Fight Depression and Anxiety

Anxiety and depression are more common among children than you would think. It could be seasonal affective disorder, major depression/anxiety, or a depressive period associated with bipolar disorder. Whatever it is, the most important thing you can do is be there for your child.

Believe your child when they tell you that they are struggling. Be there for them whatever they need. There are different ways that you could offer additional assistance. But make sure that you only suggest things if they ask for it. Don’t try to force your child to try these solutions. Lastly, not every solution is going to work for everyone. Your child might not benefit from some of the things listed below. That’s okay.

 

1. TMS Therapy

TMS therapy has been gaining popularity since the early 2000s as a non-invasive treatment for major depression and anxiety. TMS stands for transcranial magnetic stimulation and works through the use of magnetic fields. These magnets are placed by an expert at the part of the brain that requires the most energy stimulation.

If you’re looking into TMS therapy for your child, you don’t need to worry about harmful side effects or checking into a psych ward. It just requires a few different appointments to the clinic and your child will start seeing positive effects immediately. For example, TMS treatment at Neuro Wellness Spa is an out patient procedure that guides patients (and parents) step by step through the TMS so that no one is surprised.

2. Cuddling

This is something simple compared to the first section. Cuddling with your child (when they want it) is a great way to help them feel better. Cuddling lets them know that they aren’t alone. It could be something as simple as putting your arm around their shoulder while you are watching television.

The most important part is to make sure that your child wants to be cuddled. If you are cuddling them and they do not want the physical contact, there is no point. It might make their symptoms worse. It could also lead them to become aggressive to get away from the contact.

3. Bouldering

This is a form of rock climbing. But, it’s not scaling great mountains or doing anything too intense. It’s low to the ground and can be practiced indoors or outdoors. You don’t need harnesses or ropes to boulder.

Because bouldering requires precision, concentration, and strength, it’s a great way to keep your child’s head clear. If they’re focusing on climbing up, they won’t have time to concentrate on their negative emotions. Plus, exercise is proven to release positive emotions.

Of course, you don’t have to choose bouldering with your child. If they are interested in a different form of exercise, it might be best to sign them up for that instead. Support them no matter what they choose. You can even join them if you feel up to it.

4. Volunteering

Giving help to others is a great way to boost your own mood. Volunteering could be as simple as reading to younger kids, picking up trash, or giving your time to help out a neighbor or a friend. This will help boost your child’s mood and also teach them important lessons about helping the community.

Listen to your child. What type of volunteer work do they want to do? Try to find something that matches their interests.

Know it’s a Journey

Fighting depression and anxiety isn’t something that can be done in one day. There are so many different nuances to these disorders. The best thing you can do is to be patient and supportive of your child.