April 1, 2023
In February 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released an alarming report revealing that nearly 3 in 5 U.S. teen girls felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021 —double that of boys, representing a nearly 60% increase and the highest level reported over the past decade.
Takisha Richardson penned a list of 3 things you can do to help a girl exhibiting the signs of sadness, depression or hopelessness.
1. Pay Attention
If you notice drastic changes in your teen’s behavior, approach her gently to find out what’s going on.
2. Be Approachable
Don’t overreact. In lieu of being critical or judgmental, provide a listening ear and help get your teen to the appropriate professionals for help.
3. Avoid Denial
Don’t tell yourself your teen is just going through a phase. Trust your gut and what you know about your teen. At the first sign of change or trouble, delicately approach your teen to try to get insight and help.
Takisha Richardson is a member of Cohen Milstein’s Sexual Abuse, Sex Trafficking, and Domestic Violence team, a former Assistant State Attorney, and Chief of the Special Victims Unit of the State Attorney’s Office for Palm Beach County, Florida.