From Shame to Strength: Overcoming Stigma Surrounding Depression in Male Teens
Teen depression is a serious mental health issue that is becoming increasingly common. Adolescence can be a challenging time, with teens facing pressures from academic expectations, social life, and extracurricular activities. This unrelenting pressure can cause self-doubt to creep in, leading teens to question their self-worth.
Traditionally, teen boys are taught to handle things on their own and often feel like they don't have anyone safe to talk to about the challenges they face. This feeling of isolation creates loneliness which can lead to depression. Unfortunately, there is a stigma surrounding talking about teen depression which makes it difficult for affected individuals to seek help without feeling embarrassed or ashamed.
Depression is Common
Depression is a common condition that affects people of all ages, especially teenagers. The National Institute for Mental Health reports that 3.2 million teenagers between the ages of 13-17 struggle with depression. Even though so many teenagers struggle with depression, many teen males feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about their struggle with depression due to the stigma around mental health challenges. In this blog post, we will talk about why it’s ok to talk about depression as a teen male and how to overcome the shame and stigma associated with it.
The first thing to remember is that depression is not a weakness or a personal flaw. It’s a real medical challenge that affects the brain. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including your genes, your environment, and life events. Depression isn’t something that you can just snap out of, no matter how many times you have been told. It isn’t a sign of weakness or a lack of willpower, it is a legitimate challenge many people face.
Speaking About Your Depression is Important
Talking about depression is important because it is often how people start to feel better. Talking about teen depression also helps break down the stigma and stereotypes of young men and mental health. Young men experience depression, and talking about it can help raise awareness, help them feel less isolated and alone, and show that it is a common condition that can happen to anyone.
If you’re feeling hesitant sharing about your experience with depression, you are not alone. Many young men worry about being judged or criticized by others. They don’t want to be seen as having a problem. It is important to remember that you might have a struggle, but that doesn’t mean that you are a problem. Mental health is something every teen can struggle with at some point, yet so few people talk about it. You also have a right to speak up about your experiences and seek help when you need it.
Strategies for Overcoming the Shame and Stigma of Depression
If you’re feeling the weight of depression and are looking for some help, here are some tips for overcoming the stigma and shame and getting some support for depression as a teen male:
1. Find a Trusted Adult to Talk to
This could be a parent, teacher, counselor, or another trusted adult in your life. They can provide emotional support, offer advice, and connect you with resources that might help you. Friends can be a great source of support as well. Finding one friend to talk to can make a world of difference. The biggest challenge with talking to friends for teen guys is that friends often don’t know what to say or how to connect you with resources to feel better. Friends AND adults can be helpful solutions in overcoming depression.
2. Seek Professional Support
A mental health professional such as a therapist can help you understand how depression showed up for you and how to reduce its overwhelming effects. Therapists help you develop skills to work through your feelings and manage the emotions when they come up.
3. Connect With Support Groups
There are many support groups for teens with depression. Many online support groups provide a safe space to share your experiences, get advice, and find support.
4. Educate Yourself and Others
Learn about depression, anxiety, and mental health to better understand your own experiences. Share what you’ve learned with friends to help break down the stigma regarding mental health and teen boys.
5. Be Kind to Yourself
It’s ok to struggle with depression. It’s important to be kind to yourself. This is a concept known as self-compassion. Saying reassuring statements to yourself, reminding yourself that you are trying, and practicing self-care is important. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat well, and engage in activities that make you happy.
Talking about depression as a teen is important for breaking down the stigma and stereotypes and getting the help and support that you need. Remember that depression is NOT a weakness, and you have the right to speak up about your experiences. Also, seek help when you need it. With the proper support and resources, you can overcome stigma and shame and get some relief from depression.
Interested in Counseling in Atlanta, GA?
Photo of Atlanta Teen Depression Therapist Ash Blanton.
Men and boys struggling with depression in Atlanta, GA, should be able to talk about their mental health with a therapist who understands the unique pressures they face. They shouldn't fear social judgment or be afraid to ask for help. At Ember Counseling Atlanta, they can find a therapist that will approach therapy in a way that works best for them.
Follow these simple steps to get started:
Contact us to set up a free depression counseling consultation.
Learn more about Ash Blanton, Depression Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Start talking about your mental health and find the help you need in a healthy way.
Other Therapy Services at Ember Counseling Atlanta
Depression Therapy isn’t the only service I offer at my Atlanta, GA, counseling practice. I provide in-person and online therapy in Atlanta, GA, for the whole family, including anxiety therapy, teen counseling, and family counseling. I also provide an Intensive Three-Day Counseling Workshop for those who want to speed up the healing process. Check out Ember Counseling Atlanta’s blog and FAQs for more information!
