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

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!

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.