Preventing Depression From Coming Back in Teens: Care Instructions

Overview

Some people have depression symptoms that come back. Depression often comes and goes during a lifetime. But there are some things you can do to help lower the chance of depression coming back.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

What do you need to know?

Know your risk of depression coming back

Some people are more likely to have symptoms of depression return. Talk to your doctor to find out how likely you are to have depression again.

You may be at risk if:

• You have a family member who has had depression.

• You have depression symptoms that continue after treatment.

If you know your risk of depression coming back and the warning signs, you will be better able to prevent depression from returning.

Know the warning signs of depression returning

The two main symptoms of depression coming back are:

• Feeling sad or hopeless.

• Losing interest in your daily activities.

You may have other symptoms, such as:

• You eat more or less than usual.

• You sleep too much or not enough.

• You feel restless and unable to sit still.

• You feel unable to move.

• You feel tired all the time.

• You feel unworthy or guilty without an obvious reason.

• You have problems concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.

• You think often about death or suicide.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.

  • Continue to take your medicine after your symptoms improve. Don't stop taking them without talking to your doctor.

  • If your depression keeps coming back, your doctor may recommend that you take medicine even longer.

• Continue counseling. It may help prevent depression from returning, especially if you've had multiple episodes of depression. Talk with your counselor if you are having a hard time attending your sessions or you think the sessions aren't working. Don't just stop going.

• Eat healthy foods. Include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains in your diet each day.

• Get regular exercise. Go for a walk or jog, ride your bike, or play sports with friends.

• See your doctor right away if you have new symptoms or feel that your depression is coming back.

• Keep a regular sleep schedule. Try for 8 to 10 hours of sleep a night.

• Avoid using illegal drugs or marijuana and drinking alcohol.

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

• Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

• Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).

• Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

Current as of: June 24, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.