Depression in Teens and Adolescence: Real Help, Real Hope
Depression in teens and adolescence is more than just mood swings—it’s a serious mental health condition that deserves attention, compassion, and expert care. At FFEW, we specialize in supporting adolescents and their families with therapy, coaching, and strategies that empower real change.
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Is It More Than Just a Mood Swing?
Teenagers naturally experience emotional highs and lows. But when persistent sadness, withdrawal, or hopelessness takes over, it may be a sign of clinical depression in adolescence.
Signs of depression in teens may include:
- Ongoing sadness, irritability, or apathy
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Loss of interest in hobbies, sports, or school
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Trouble focusing or a drop in grades
- Negative self-talk or low self-worth
- Physical complaints without a clear cause
Teenage depression is common—and treatable. With the right support, your teen can feel like themselves again.
How Depression Affects Teens & Their Families
Teen depression often affects more than just the individual. As a parent, you may notice:
- Constant conflict or emotional distance at home
- Declining academic performance despite effort
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Signs of obsessive thoughts or co-occurring anxiety (such as OCD and depression)
- A loss of hope or motivation
Supporting a teen with depression can feel overwhelming—but you’re not alone. At FFEW, we offer practical, compassionate support for both teens and caregivers.
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How We Help Teens with Depression
Our approach to treating depression in teens and adolescence is rooted in proven, research-backed care. We use a blend of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness for teens to help them:
Individual Therapy for Teens
- Understand and shift negative thinking patterns
- Develop coping tools for managing depressive symptoms
- Reconnect with joy, meaning, and motivation
- Learn emotion regulation skills and problem-solving strategies
Therapy is also a space where teens can process difficult emotions like shame, fear, or anxiety—especially when dealing with depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD depression).
Learn more about individual therapy for teens
One-on-One Parent Coaching
Parents play a major role in adolescent mental health. Coaching helps you:
- Respond effectively to signs of teenage depression
- Avoid common pitfalls that can increase shutdown or resistance
- Support your teen without overstepping
- Build a healthier parent–teen relationship
We’ll also guide you in mindfulness practices and emotional regulation strategies to help you model healthy behaviour.
Learn more about Parent Coaching
Why Families Choose FFEW
Helping your teen move through depression takes more than good intentions—it takes the right support.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Teen Mental Health Experts – CBT, DBT for teenagers, and adolescent depression treatment
- Dual Support for Teens & Parents – Because healing is a family process
- Tailored Therapy for Every Stage – From early adolescence to late teens
- Flexible Options – Virtual therapy for teens across Ontario, or in-person in Toronto
Meet Your Depression Support Team
- Dr. Zia Lakdawalla, Ph.D., C.Psych – Child & Adolescent Psychologist, Director
- Dr. Lana Zinck, Ph.D., C. Psych – Registered Psychologist
- Dr. Tamara Meixner, Ph.D., C.Psych. – Registered Psychologist
- Cassandra Harmsen, M.A., Ph.D. Candidate – Clinical Therapist
- Ola Obaro, MA, RP, CCC – Registered Psychotherapist
- Charlotte Johnston, M.S.W., R.S.W. – Registered Social Worker
- Jaydon Frid, M.S.W., R.S.W. – Registered Social Worker
We’ve helped teens overcome depression with tools that stick and support that feels real.
View Our Full Team
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions parents ask about this service—so you can feel more confident about what to expect.
What’s the difference between teen depression and typical mood swings?
Teenage mood swings are usually short-lived and tied to specific events. Depression in teens and adolescence is more pervasive, affecting daily life and lasting for weeks or months.
What are the symptoms of teenage depression I should look out for?
Look for signs like withdrawal from activities, persistent irritability, sleep changes, low energy, and verbal cues like “I feel worthless.”
Does FFEW provide counselling for teenage depression virtually?
No. All therapy for teens is provided in-person at our Toronto office. Virtual therapy is available only for parents across Ontario.
What if my teen has both OCD and depression?
We’re experienced in treating complex presentations, including depression with OCD. Treatment may include CBT with ERP, DBT skills, and mindfulness.
How can I support a depressed teenager at home?
Create open lines of communication, be patient, and model healthy habits. Parent coaching can also help you feel more confident and connected.