What are the warning signs of depression in teens? When do social media and gaming habits cross the line into putting kids at risk? How can parents keep teens healthy and safe--without sledgehammering all their devices? This realistic, nonjudgmental guide from adolescent psychiatrist and parent Meredith E. Gansner provides the latest information about depression in teens, with a special focus on digital media use. Filled with vivid stories, the book helps you understand teen mental health problems and self-harm; find an accurate diagnosis; work with your child to develop healthier habits, aided by downloadable practical tools; and make informed treatment decisions. Dr. Gansner explores myths and facts about internet addiction, dangerous viral trends, and cyberbullying, and describes actionable steps for curbing them. Every chapter also identifies positive technology resources for both kids and parents, from supportive online communities to health-promoting sites and apps.
Introduction I. The Whats and Whys of Adolescent Depression 1. Getting to Know Depression: Definitions and Diagnosis 2. Understanding How Episodes of Depression Develop II. The Treatment Landscape 3. Evaluating Your Teen’s Treatment Options 4. Making Lifestyle Changes: Sleep, Supplements, and Exercise 5. Starting Psychotherapy 6. Trying Medications III. Risky Behaviors 7. Keeping Your Teen with Depression Safe 8. Managing Addictive, Impulsive, and Reward-Seeking Behavior 9. Tackling Irritability and Aggression 10. Understanding Nonsuicidal Self-Injury 11. Navigating Suicidal Thinking IV. Stabilization and Recovery 12. Recognizing When Your Teen Needs a Higher Level of Care 13. Supporting Recovery and Moving Forward Appendix. Templates for Plans to Keep Your Teen Safe Bibliography Index
Meredith E. Gansner, MD, is an attending child psychiatrist at Boston Children’s Hospital and Instructor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Her award-winning research focuses on adolescent mental health and problematic digital media use. Dr. Gansner lives in the Boston area with her husband and two children.
Reviews for Teen Depression Gone Viral: Why Kids Are More Vulnerable Than Ever and How You Can Protect Your Child's Health and Happiness
""There's a world of information online about adolescent depression, but distinguishing good advice from bad can be daunting. Expert guidance is here. Dr. Gansner provides trustworthy information and practical recommendations for how you can help your struggling teen.""--Christopher R. Martell, PhD, ABPP, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst ""This is the only book you need if you are worried that your teenager is depressed. Dr. Gansner's approach is evidence based and relatable. She helps you understand adolescent depression and gives you a roadmap for navigating the massive amount of online mental health data. This is the first book to unpack the complexities of how the internet and social media are impacting depression in teens, both positively and negatively. For example, Dr. Gansner explains that the internet can help teens to better understand their depression, but can also encourage them to embrace inaccurate, even exotic self-diagnoses to feel more connected to online communities.""--Jodi Gold, MD, author of Screen-Smart Parenting-