Image Source: Flickr user – Marciecasas
In a new review, published in JAMA Pediatrics, researchers examined more than 36 studies about the adverse effects of cyberbullying on teen mental health. What they found was a strong link between those cyber-bullied and teen depression. They also found that most cyberbullying instances happened through Facebook, a common social media site. This emphasizes the need for parents to look out for the signs that their child is being cyber-bullied.
Signs your child is being cyber-bullied
According to the review, adolescents that are cyber-bullied often suffer alone and don’t ask for help. This makes it extremely important to know the warning signs so that parents can offer help as soon as possible. A few warning signs of cyberbullying from the National Crime Prevention Council include:
- Suddenly withdrawn or shy
- Anxious or stressed
- Avoidance of using the computer or other electronic devices
- Abrupt changes in friends
- School refusal
- Loss of interest in school
- Sudden drop in grades
If your child is showing any of these signs, it’s best to make sure they know you’re there to talk without judgement. Making yourself an open and supportive figure will make it easier for your child to come forward about struggles like cyberbullying.
Signs of teen depression
Because of the link between cyberbullying and depression, it’s also important to know the indicators of teen depression. Depression can turn into something life-crippling, which makes treatment a priority if your child is struggling with teen depression. A few signs of teen depression from the U.S. National Library of Medicine include:
- School avoidance
- Changes in routine, such as difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Drug/alcohol abuse
- Loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy
- More sensitive to criticism
- Becoming more withdrawn from friends/family
How to get help
If traditional therapeutic techniques aren’t improving your child’s teen depression, Trails Carolina is a viable option. Trails Carolina is a wilderness therapy program that helps teens, ages 10 to 17, struggling with issues such as teen depression, anxiety, ADHD and many more. At Trails, we use comprehensive, research-based therapeutic techniques to better the lives of troubled adolescents.
For more information on how Trails Carolina can help your child deal with teen depression, call today at 800-975-7303.
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Trails saved my daughter’s life. Amanda is an amazing human and a brilliant therapist. I am so grateful to her, Science Steve, and the other wonderful people who could reach my daughter at a time when I could not.
Margot Lowman August 2022
Great life changing experience for our son. After becoming addicted to gaming during covid he was very depressed. At Trails he experienced the wilderness, Science Steve, learning survival skills and top notch therapy and support etc… I highly recommend! This gave our son and our family a renewed family bond full of love and excitement about his bright future.
Winnifred Wilson July 2022
Outstanding clinical work and superb staff! There’s a great culture at this company and it shows with how they engage with families/clients.
Kristin Brace June 2022
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