Talking to Kids About Depression: Why Early Mental Health Conversations Matter

Too often, children grow up surrounded by silence when it comes to mental health. Without words for what they see or feel, kids may blame themselves, feel isolated, or miss the signs of depression altogether.

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, TJ, a father living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, shares why he chose to have an open, honest conversation with his young son about mental illness. From breaking stigma at home to teaching emotional expression, TJ’s story highlights why starting mental health conversations early matters — and how they can save lives.

This episode also underscores the importance of mental health education in families and schools so that children grow up with tools to recognize symptoms, seek help, and support others.

Link to resources on depression in children: 
https://www.webmd.com/depression/qa/what-are-signs-and-symptoms-of-depression-in-children

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14938-depression-in-children

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/depression-in-children

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why talking about mental health with kids reduces stigma
• The challenges of recognizing depression in children
• How depression and family history increase risk in kids
• TJ’s story of living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD
• The dangers of untreated depression and suicidal thoughts
• Why medication and therapy matter — and the risks of stopping treatment
• Parenting while struggling with mental illness
• How TJ transformed his pain into open conversations with his son
• The role of schools and families in normalizing mental health education
• Why early conversations help kids understand, cope, and support others

Timestamps:
 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and podcast mission
 01:40 – Why depression in children often goes unrecognized
 02:52 – Signs of depression in children and teens
 03:25 – Guest TJ introduces himself and his story
 04:42 – Early struggles with depression and avoidance of treatment
 05:15 – Suicidal thoughts and seeking professional help
 05:51 – The medication cycle and stopping treatment
 06:36 – Personal crises, overdoses, and hospitalizations
 07:19 – Parenting with depression and its impact on children
 08:06 – Why TJ chose to speak openly with his son
 09:25 – Normalizing feelings and reducing shame in children
 10:29 – A powerful father–son conversation about emotions
 11:30 – Explaining depression to a child without fear or stigma
 12:31 – His son’s reaction and acceptance
 13:19 – Why mental health talks must be ongoing, not one-time
 14:44 – Balancing honesty with protecting a child from overwhelm
 14:59 – Why parents must be willing to listen when kids share
 15:59 – Teaching kids early to fight stigma and normalize care
 16:34 – Why focusing on children’s mental health is essential
 18:40 – Final reflections from the hosts

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