Meredith E. Gansner, MD, is an attending child psychiatrist at Boston Childrens 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.
Description
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, reassuring guide from adolescent psychiatrist and parent Meredith E. Gansner gives parents the latest information about depression in teens, with a special focus on digital media use. Filled with vivid stories, the book illuminates the warning signs of teen mental health problems and self-harm; what parents can do to help, including downloadable practical tools; and how to find effective diagnosis and treatment. Exploring myths and facts about internet addiction, dangerous viral trends, and cyberbullying, Dr. Gansner provides 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 Teens 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
