Teen Depression IOP Therapy

At Greywood Health Center, our intensive outpatient program for adolescent and teen depression, is a specialized form of therapy designed to treat depression in teenagers. It involves intensive, structured therapy sessions that are delivered on an outpatient basis, allowing teens to continue living at home while receiving the treatment they need.

The primary goal of both our IOP and PHP options is to help develop coping skills and strategies to manage depression symptoms while providing the support needed to achieve lasting recovery. Therapy sessions involve individual and group therapy and will also include family therapy and medication management if necessary. Our unique blend of traditional psychotherapy and our mind-body approach provides the framework for our young patients to complete the program with a successful outcome.

Key Features of Teen Depression IOP Therapy

Intensive therapy sessions

Teens receive multiple therapy sessions per week, allowing them to engage in intensive treatment and receive support from our mental health professionals on staff.

Comprehensive treatment

Treatment is tailored to each patient’s unique needs and will involve a combination of therapy modalities and other interventions, such as medication management and mindfulness techniques.

Family involvement

Family therapy sessions are included in teen depression IOP therapy, as family support and involvement is critical for an adolescent’s recovery.

Peer support

Group therapy sessions allow teenagers to connect with peers who are experiencing similar challenges, providing them with a sense of community and support.

Flexibility

Therapy for teen depression here at Greywood Health Center is delivered on an outpatient basis, allowing teens to continue attending school and living at home while receiving treatment.

Our programs for teen depression are effective treatment options for teenagers struggling with depression. They provide intensive, comprehensive therapy and support, helping teenagers develop the coping skills and strategies they need to overcome their depression and achieve lasting recovery.

What Does Depression Look Like In Teens?

Depression can manifest in different ways in teens, and symptoms can vary depending on the individual. Here are some common signs and symptoms of depression in teenagers that may require an intensive outpatient program in Chicago or a partial hospitalization program:

1. Persistent sadness: Teens with depression may feel sad or hopeless for an extended period of time, often without an obvious reason.
2. Irritability: Instead of sadness, some teenagers with depression may appear irritable or easily frustrated, lashing out at others or reacting negatively to minor triggers.
3. Lack of interest: Teens with depression may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, such as sports, hobbies, or spending time with friends.
4. Changes in appetite: Depression can cause changes in appetite, leading to significant weight loss or gain.
5. Sleep disturbances: Teenagers with depression may experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep or may sleep excessively.
6. Fatigue: Depression can cause feelings of exhaustion or lack of energy, even after a full night’s sleep.
7. Poor concentration: Teens with depression may struggle to focus or remember things, which can impact their academic performance.
8. Feelings of worthlessness: Depression can cause teens to feel like they are a burden or that they are worthless.
9. Suicidal thoughts: In some cases, depression can lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

It’s important to note that depression can appear differently in different individuals, and some teens may not exhibit all of these symptoms. If you are concerned about your teenager’s mental health, we urge you to contact Greywood Health Center so we can conduct a comprehensive assessment and develop an appropriate treatment plan for your adolescent or young adult.

Depression And Suicide Risk In Adolescents And Young Adults

Depression can increase the risk of suicide in teenagers and young adults. According to the American Psychological Association, suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people ages 15 to 24. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Depression is a major risk factor: Depression is one of the most significant risk factors for suicide in teenagers and young adults. Teens with depression may feel hopeless, worthless, and overwhelmed, which can increase their risk of suicide.
• Other risk factors: Other risk factors for suicide in teenagers and young adults include a history of suicide attempts, a family history of suicide or mental illness, substance use, bullying, and trauma or abuse.
• Warning signs: Some warning signs of suicide in teenagers and young adults include talking about suicide, expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, giving away possessions, engaging in risky behavior, and withdrawing from family and friends.
• Prevention: Prevention of suicide in teenagers and young adults involves addressing the underlying mental health issues, providing appropriate treatment and support, and reducing access to lethal means.
• Seeking help: If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional or crisis hotline. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) in the United States. And you can contact Greywood Health Center at 312-605-1390.

It’s important to take depression and suicide risks in adolescents and young adults seriously and to seek professional help if you have concerns. With proper treatment and support, many teenagers and young adults who struggle with depression can recover and go on to lead happy, healthy lives.

What Stops Young People From Getting Help For Depression

There are several reasons why young people may hesitate to seek help for depression, and the staff here at Greywood Health Center understands their concerns. Here are some common setbacks we have seen from adolescents who are unsure about receiving professional help:

Stigma

Unfortunately, there is still a significant amount of stigma surrounding mental health issues, which can make teens feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help.

Lack of knowledge

Many young people may not be aware of the symptoms of depression or the available treatment options. They may not recognize that what they are experiencing is a mental health issue, or they may not know how to access resources for help.

Fear of judgment

Some young adults may worry about being judged or criticized by friends, family, or others if they seek help for depression.

Access barriers

Young people may face barriers to accessing mental health services, such as a lack of insurance, transportation, or availability of mental health providers in their area.

It’s important to address these barriers and encourage your teen that it is ok to ask for help for depression. This can include providing education about mental health issues, promoting open communication and support, and connecting your child with appropriate resources for treatment.

Treating Adolescent Depression With Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is an effective treatment for adolescent depression. There are several types of psychotherapy that we use in our therapy sessions which have shown to be effective in treating depression in teenagers, including:

1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that helps individuals identify negative or distorted thought patterns and replace them with more positive and realistic ones. CBT also teaches coping skills and problem-solving strategies to help teenagers manage their symptoms.
2. Interpersonal therapy (IPT): IPT focuses on improving relationships and communication skills, which can be helpful for teenagers who may be struggling with social or family issues.
3. Family therapy: Family therapy involves working with the entire family to improve communication and address issues that may be contributing to the teenager’s depression.
4. Group therapy: Group therapy can provide a supportive environment where teenagers can connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges and learn coping skills from one another.

We feel that psychotherapy can be effective on its own, in addition to the mind-body approach,  or in combination with medication, depending on the severity of the depression and the patient’s needs. At Greywood Health Center, we strive to match each patient with their own custom treatment plan after their assessment to promote success and a happier life going forward.

Can Young People Recover From Depression

Yes, at Greywood Health Center, we absolutely believe adolescents and young adults can recover from depression. While depression can be a serious and challenging condition, it is treatable. With the right treatment and support, many young people with depression can improve their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

Our programs provide treatment for depression which include psychotherapy, mind-body approach, medication management (if deemed necessary), or a combination of the three. In addition, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management techniques can also be helpful in managing depression going forward.

It’s important to note that recovery from depression is a process and may take time. It may also involve setbacks along the way. However, with persistence and support, most young people with depression can see improvement in their symptoms. We follow our patients after discharge to make sure everything is going well and are only a phone call away if they feel they need additional support.

We also feel it’s important to remember that recovery from depression is not just about managing symptoms, but also about learning coping skills and strategies to help prevent future episodes of depression. We instruct our patients in developing healthy habits, learning to recognize and manage triggers, and building a support system of family and friends.

How Can Parents Help Their Teen Or Young Adult With Depression

We know that teen depression does not only affect the patient but can affect parents and the entire family unit. Here are some ways you can help your adolescent or young adult through this time while taking care of yourself as well.

• Encourage open communication: Encourage your adolescent to talk to you about how they are feeling. Listen actively and try to understand their perspective without judgment or criticism.
• Educate yourself about depression: Learn about the signs and symptoms of depression, as well as the available treatment options. This can help you better understand your adolescent’s experience and provide more effective support.
• Seek professional help: Encourage your adolescent to see a mental health professional for assessment and treatment. And include them in the research of different facilities and what programs are offered.
• Support healthy habits: Encourage your adolescent to engage in healthy habits, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep hygiene. These habits can help improve mood and overall well-being.
• Offer emotional support: Let your adolescent know that you are there for them and offer emotional support. This can include showing empathy, offering encouragement, and providing reassurance.
• Provide structure and routine: Establishing structure and routine can be helpful for adolescents with depression, as it can provide a sense of stability and predictability. Encourage your adolescent to maintain a regular schedule for activities such as meals, exercise, and sleep.
• Take care of yourself: Supporting a teenager with depression can be challenging and emotionally taxing. Make sure to take care of yourself and seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if needed.

What Are Some Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders With Adolescent And Young Adult Depression

We recognize patients rarely fit into a single diagnostic box. Therefore, our clients are not assigned to a ‘track.’ Rather, every individual who comes to us receives the full Greywood experience tailored to their goals and needs. Here are some of the most common co-occurring disorders:

Anxiety disorders

Anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, or panic disorder, are common in teenagers with depression.

Substance use disorders

Adolescents with depression are at an increased risk of developing substance use disorders like alcohol or drug abuse.

Eating disorders

Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, are more common in young adults with depression.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

ADHD can co-occur with depression in some teenagers, making it more difficult to focus and manage emotions.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Adolescents who have experienced trauma, such as abuse, violence, or a natural disaster, may develop PTSD along with depression.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

OCD is a disorder characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, which can co-occur with depression in some young people.

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder involves episodes of mania and depression and can develop in some adolescents with depression.

It’s important to note that treating co-occurring disorders along with depression is important for a successful recovery. During the initial assessment, we can assess and develop an appropriate treatment plan that addresses all of the teenager’s needs.