Like many teens, my oldest son suffers from depression. It has been an ongoing battle since just before he hit his teens and has continued into his college years. It has been difficult for my wife and I, but not nearly as much as a strain as it is on him. Despite those struggles, he has done incredibly well and overcome many of his personal demons as he has moved through life.
In many ways he is lucky and so are we. Suicide has risen to become the second leading cause of death in those under the age of 21. Teen depression is a serious issue that is too often overlooked under the false belief that they are merely facing the usual trials and emotional upset of hormonal teenage years.
Facing such a tragedy is unimaginable and I am not so naive to think that my son could have never been a part of that statistic. Thankfully, he found ways to cope with his depression: therapy, healthy life habits, a strong emotional support system and sports.
Sports and Emotional Stability
Yes, I included sports on that list. When my son became involved in teams at school in Junior High it had a marked impact on his life. He was happier, more confident, spent more time with friends, was engaging more in school…it was a major change.
I am not claiming that sports healed my son’s depression. He still struggles with that dark cloud to this day and may for the rest of his life. I am saying that his sports activities gave him another coping mechanism. It helped him deal with the overwhelming feelings that came along with his condition.
Being part of a team gave him a sense of camaraderie with his teammates. Furthermore, it has helped his social skills, given him something to focus on, and boosted his self esteem. It even has taught him to manage his stress.
The Value of Activities
Sports are not the only way this can be done. Studies have shown that teens and children can benefit for life from various activities, such as art, science, music or anything else they find a passion in.
What is important it that they gain a sense of achievement and the chance to do something that they love, regularly. They can make friends who are also interested in their hobby, bringing them closer together.
We should be encouraging our teens to engage in what they enjoy, with others who enjoy it, where there are long term, tangible benefits of those hobbies. It could save their life.
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This story has been republished to Medium.
Photo Credit: iStock
