42: 3 Ways Parents Can Help Prevent Depression in Their Kids

Warning - sad statistic. :( The 2nd leading cause of death for kids ages 10-24 in America is...suicide.

I'm not okay with this!

Let's talk this Depression Awareness Month about prevention - there are research-based strategies that parents can use to reduce their kids' chances of being depressed. While depression isn't the only risk factor for suicide, it is certainly correlated.

If we can make these practices a part of American culture, we can save American kids!!

Today I'm expanding on these 3 things parents can do to raise depression-proof kids:

1. Control stress - in yourself and then model and teach your kids to do it for themselves
2. Boost self-esteem - through genuine purpose-driven work, not empty compliments
3. Increase resilience - by letting kids learn to cope with failure and difficulties

This episode is sponsored by Just Thrive Probiotics! Check them out at kidscookrealfood.com/JustThrive. Use code Katie15 for 15% off!

Resources We Mention About Depression Prevention

• Mayo Clinic article on teen suicide
• Mayo Clinic article on teen depression causes and prevention
• My interview with Jessica Lahey on the gift of failure
• My interview with Jess Sherman on raising resilience
• My Healthy Parenting Handbook episodes on Stress Mastery: part 1 and part 2
• My interview with Lisa Dorval on meditation for kids (includes 2 guided meditations)
• The Wellness Mama podcast episode with Margot Bisnow
• Raising kids to follow their passions with Jonathan and Renee Harris
• Life skills to teach your kids before they turn 18

• Kitchen Stewardship
• Kids Cook Real Food
• follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook
• Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates
• YouTube shorts channel for HPH
• Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast

Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!