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

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.

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.

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.

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.

It will be helpful if the parent will tell the child how they overcomed their past as an example and a way to show that there is hope.

i think so. it shows compassion and empathy and allows the child to feel a bond with the parent that wasnt there before

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.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.

This really depends on the relationship between parent and child and the unique circumstances of the situation. If it goes badly, it could end up making the child feel as if the parent is making it all about them, or the child might misunderstand and assume that they're 'doomed' by genetics to have a mental illness. If it goes well, it could help the child feel less alone and a more hopeful about what the future holds. If things are severe enough that the child is suicidal, it's probably best to get professional support. Perhaps the parent could share with the child with a family counsellor's guidance.

Sure they should.. And tell them how you dealt with your depression and how far you've come out of depression

Yes you should. It can help to know how your parent dealt with it.

No. Telling them of your past experience with depression is never going to make things better or help the child overcome or cope with his or her own depression or suicidal tendencies.

Often, suicidal and depressed individual do not always know where or to whom to turn to. They might even feel ashamed or to shy to tell anyone about their feelings. Knowing that someone close to them has lived a similar experience can be very helpful to start a discussion on the subject and open up. It can also be an opportunity to create a connection that will help them in the situation. It's also an opportunity to let them know that hey you are there for them and believe them. I hope this helps, and good luck to you!

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.