Children and teenagers can struggle with many complex emotions and challenges as they grow up and evolve. Anxiety and depression can become prevalent in their lives and impact their daily functioning. Your child or teen may struggle with relationships, performance and school or at extracurricular activities. At Wholesome Psychology, we provide a supportive environment for all children and teens who are needing support or guidance. We also provide support for families to better understand each other and the struggles they face. Our psychologists use evidenced based modalities and create a treatment plan that is tailored to you and your family.. If you would like to learn more about our unique approach and see how our therapists support children and teens, view our team page on our website.
Understanding Anxiety and Depression in Children and Youth
Anxiety and Depression can have profound impacts on children and teens. These feelings are deeper than the occasional worry or sad feeling, they become persistent and start to impact their daily lives. If your child or teen is struggling with relationships, overwhelming worry or deep feelings of sadness, professional help can be beneficial. Anxiety and depression can manifest in a few different ways such as constant worrying, irritability, and avoiding people or events that may cause anxiety. Anxiety and depression can also cause physical symptoms such as stomach aches, headaches, troubles sleeping or mood swings. Not everyone will experience anxiety and depression in the same way. At wholesome our child psychologists in Edmonton or St. Albert, provide support to address any of the above concerns. They will collaborate with children and their families to find a treatment approach that helps them reach their goals.
Common Signs of Anxiety and Depression in children and teens
- Excessive worrying
- Deep feelings of sadness
- Avoiding social events and shying away from new opportunities
- Withdrawal from social activities or friendships
- Changes in eating habits
- Decreased sleep or sleeping too much
- Physical symptoms such as headache or stomach issues that have no medical explanation
- Perfectionism
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Suicidal thoughts or self harm
If you feel as though your child or teen may be impacted by depression or anxiety, working with a trained therapist can help manage their symptoms and improve overall well-being.
How Our Child Anxiety and Depression Therapy can help
Our therapists create a safe and comforting space that allows children, teens and their families to create a trusting bond with the therapist. This bond will allow them to be open and honest in sessions to discuss their feelings and experiences. They will combine age appropriate approaches to best suit your child’s needs and goals. Some modalities we utilize are cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), play therapy, and mindfulness strategies. They will teach your child coping skills and emotional regulation techniques to help them manage their symptoms. If applicable, parents and family members may partake in a few sessions so they can learn how to best support the child or teen. No child’s journey is the same. This is why we curate a unique treatment plan for each child and family. For more information view our unique approach page.
Evidence-Based Approaches for Child Anxiety and Depression
As mentioned above, we utilize a variety of treatment modalities to ensure your child receives the care needed to improve their well being. Some of these approaches include:
We also provide access to outside resources if applicable.
When Should You Seek Help for child or teen
Professional counselling can be helpful for any child or teen who chronically worries, has profound feelings of sadness or hopelessness or has withdrawn from friends or social gatherings. Some levels of anxiety and sadness can occur throughout childhood as you are learning and experiencing a lot of new things at one time, but they should not impact daily life. If you feel your child is experiencing these symptoms or mood swings, counseling can be helpful for them. Learn more about child and youth mental health on our site.
Support for Parents and Caregivers
At Wholesome Psychology, we understand that anxiety and depression can affect the entire family. Our therapists are available to provide support to parents, siblings and family members to ensure everyone feels heard and understood. We can provide caregivers and family members tools and communication strategies to ensure they are supporting their child or teen in the best way possible. When families feel supported they often connect better and manage their dynamics more appropriately. If you are wanting to speak with your child and prepare them for therapy, our page on preparing children for therapy can provide some guidance. Parents can also view our parenting support counseling page for additional resources.
Related Topics and resources for Children and Teens
Some concerns or struggles that may arise for children and teens include:
Book a Consultation in Edmonton or St. Albert
We understand that taking the initial step to start your healing journey may seem scary. AT Wholesome we strive to provide compassionate and respectful support to ensure everyone feels safe and welcome. If your child or teen is struggling with anxiety or depression we are here to help! We offer in person sessions at our Edmonton and St.Albert offices and secure virtual sessions as well. Contact us today to schedule your child or teens first appointment or if you have any questions regarding child and teen counselling. We are honoured to be apart of your child and families journey.
