A healthy emotion is sadness.It can be difficult to watch someone you love feel sad.You should watch for signs that your parent is sad.If you can, help them cope with their sadness.Depression may look very much like sadness.It may be a good idea to keep an eye on your parent over time to make sure they don't get worse.
Step 1: They should be monitored for any changes to their behavior.
Changes in the way your parent acts can be caused by sadness.They have been quiet recently, for instance, they might be very quiet.Pay attention to any changes in their behavior.They may be ruminating on an event or a conversation.This may be a sign of sadness.
Step 2: There are signs of crying.
A sad parent may cry a lot.Their eyes are red and swollen.They might have used tissues around their favorite chair.You can see them crying.This can be upsetting, but crying isn't bad.It means that they are letting their feelings out.
Step 3: They might have trouble paying attention or listening.
Many people who feel sad may not know what to think.It's possible that your parent has trouble staying focused during a conversation or working.You might be telling your mom about your day, but she is staring off into space.You might ask your mom.She snapped back to attention and said, Did you hear me?
Step 4: They should notice if they withdraw from friends and family.
A sad person may not want to be around other people.They may want to be alone with their thoughts, or they may not be happy.Your parents may go off on their own a lot.They might not be taking phone calls or turning away visitors.Considering how often your parent is alone is a cause for concern.
Step 5: They should check their sleep and eating habits.
If your parent is sad, you may hear them moving around in the small hours of the night.They don't want to get out of bed and sleep too much.A sad parent may not eat much at dinner time or they may eat a lot of junk food to numb their feelings.
Step 6: They should consider any stress in their life.
Depression can be caused by major and minor sources of stress.If they have experienced any major stressors, such as losing a loved one, moving, or going through a divorce, consider how they are handling it.
Step 7: The side effects of their medications should be noted.
It's important to consider that some medications can result in feelings of sadness or depression.You should check the side effects of your parent's medication to see if they are at a higher risk of depression.
Step 8: If they would like to talk.
It's nice to reach out to your parent if you see signs of sadness.Let them know that you noticed a change in their behavior by going to them.Ask if they would like to discuss it with you.If you think you understand the cause of the sadness, you might ask if they are sad about it.You could say, "Dad, I know you're going through a tough time since Mom left."I am here for you.Your parent might not want to talk to you about what is making them sad because they don't want you to worry.
Step 9: Ask what you can do to help.
You might see if you can assist in some other way by talking to them about it.If you know your parent is comforted by certain things, bring them to them.You can come out and ask how you can help.You could bring your mom a blanket and make her a cup of tea.You could say, "I can tell you're sad."What can I do?
Step 10: Give them privacy.
Even if you try, your parent may just want to be alone.That is fine.Taking time alone to process negative emotions can help them.Give your parent some space if they don't want to help.You could say, "Okay, I'll give you some space."If you need me, I'm downstairs.
Step 11: It's not your responsibility to fix things.
It's normal to worry about your parent and want to help them feel better.You should know that isn't your responsibility.Try to live in the way that you normally would.You can keep yourself busy by doing your homework, engaging in extracurricular activities, and hanging out with friends.
Step 12: There's a difference between sadness and depression.
Depression and sadness are lumped together, so it is important to distinguish them.It is important to know that sadness can be caused by a loss of some kind.Depression can occur without a clear reason, and the person seems sad about everything.Depression is often characterized by feelings of sadness and despair.A person's daily activities can be interfered with by these feelings.If there is no clear reason for your parent's sadness, they may be struggling with depression and need professional help.
Step 13: Look for signs of stress.
Your parent may find it hard to deal with their sadness.They may be able to numb their feelings of sadness by abusing alcohol or drugs.The problem can be worsened by escaping the negative emotion.If your parent has abused alcohol or drugs, talk to another adult about it.
Step 14: Discuss your concerns with your parent.
If your parent's sadness lasts for weeks and they don't seem to be getting any better, they may have depression.You could tell them that you're worried.They should see a doctor or a mental health professional.You could say, "Dad, I'm really worried about you."I know you are not sleeping because you have been missing work a lot.If you saw a doctor, I would be better off.
Step 15: Talk to an adult.
You could get another adult involved if your parent doesn't listen to you.Pick someone you trust such as a parent, uncle, aunt, grandparent, or counselor.Tell them what happened to your parent.You can say something along the lines of, "Grandma, I'm really concerned about mom."She has not been eating, sleeping, or leaving her room.Inform someone else if the adult you talk to doesn't do anything.
Step 16: Ask your parent to let you see a therapist.
A mental health professional can help you deal with the stress of having a parent who is depressed or sad.If you want to talk to someone about what's happening, you should ask your parent to set up an appointment.If this person believes you or someone else is in immediate danger, they will keep whatever you say confidential.