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Should a parent tell their depressed and suicidal child about their past as a depressed teen?

Profile: mayraishere
mayraishere on Feb 2, 2015
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I think it would be good for both. Sharing the (common) pain can create a stronger connection between parents and their kids, and it would show their kids that, if they came around this, they can do it, too.
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Profile: heartfulmusings89
heartfulmusings89 on Feb 19, 2015
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I believe so. I think it's important to address these issues with your child while they are growing up. Because if a parent went through the same thing that their child is going through, then they are the ones that should be able to empathize the most with their kid. And, by telling your child what your experiences were, it also lets them know that they aren't alone in this and that it can get better.
Profile: positivelymia84
positivelymia84 on Jun 5, 2015
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I think communication is very vital in a parent-child relationship. Children can always look up to their parents especially if the parent has experienced depression but has overcome it. Talking to the child who is suicidal, she/he will be able to get some tips or advise on how she could overcome depression.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Jun 6, 2015
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Absolutely! To know that the parent struggled with the same thing will give the child hope that things can be better in the future. The child will also feel more connected because he now knows you have shared in the same struggle.
Profile: helper2319
helper2319 on May 8, 2015
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I thing so. If a parent can truly conect with their child on a truly important subject like this, they might save their chils' s life.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on May 14, 2015
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It could help. It could be used in a way to connect with the child and make them realize that they can overcome what is depressing them. Be there for them.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Jul 7, 2015
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Yes, because sometimes your past and how you got through it can help your child overcome there problem if they know you can relate to them in some way
Profile: ClaireyMarie
ClaireyMarie on Jul 21, 2015
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Sure, only to relate to them and let them know that they understand, and to say that things can get better It is no good when a parent does it in comparison though, or in a way to tell that child that they had it worse than their kid. I don't feel that's right, because everyone has their known limit to depression, and any amount is bad and a struggle, it doesn't matter if anyone has had it worse.
Profile: MegEliza
MegEliza on Jul 30, 2015
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Absolutely! It's a great way to help the child and parent connect and the child will likely feel more comfortable talking about their own issues with a parent that they know understands.
Profile: PoliteOcean
PoliteOcean on Sep 21, 2015
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They may be able to help their child in the way of letting them know that they understand what they are going through. And should do what they can to help. The next step should be to seek help through a professional like doctor, counselor or therapist to help with the rest.
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