Self-Help Resources

Depression and related information and tools are organized here, with links to additional resources. Children receiving treatment for depression may also be struggling with anxiety, deployment-related issues, sleep disturbances, or any number of other physical and/or mental health conditions. You may find the self-help information posted under other behavioral health categories for children on this web site to be helpful.

Fact Sheets and Handouts

Let’s Talk About Depression
A fact sheet that describes the symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder and how young people can get help for themselves or their friends.

Why Am I So Sad?
Feeling down? Got the blues? Everyone feels sad sometimes. Find out more in this article for kids.

Depression
Depression is very common and affects as many as one in eight people in their teen years. For more information about how depression is diagnosed and treated, check out this article for teens.

What to do When a Friend is Depressed: Guide for Students
A fact sheet that describes how to spot depression in friends and get them help.

Suicide
Teen suicide is becoming more common every year in the United States. It is a leading cause of death in teens and youths ages 10 to 19 years old. Learn more in this article for teens.

Depression in School-Age Children and Adolescents: Characteristics, Assessment and Prevention
In-depth depression and suicide information for parents.

Videos & Audio Tips

Is Your Child Depressed?
How do you know if your child is suffering from depression? What should you do if you're concerned? Tune in to learn what every parent should know about childhood depression.

Teen Suicide: Too Young to Die
Are there warning signs you can watch out for, and what should you do if you think your child is considering suicide? Learn more.

Books & Workbooks

The Optimistic Child: Proven Program to Safeguard Children from Depression & Build Lifelong Resilience
M. E. Seligman

Raising a Moody Child: How to Cope with Depression and Bipolar Disorder
M. A. Fristad & J. S. Goldberg Arnold

Web Links

Military OneSource
Visitors on this site may be required to create a User ID and Password. Visitors are not required to disclose personal information other than branch of service and unit location.

TeensHealth
Provides handouts specifically designed for young people and parents about a depression and suicide, as well as a number of adjustment issues (e.g., divorce) that may cause mood disturbances.

HealthyPlace.com Depression Community
Information and resources for parents of young people who are struggling with depression or suicidal talk and/or attempts.