Depression in young adults is a pervasive mental health condition that can make life feel overwhelming and unbearable. However, not all depression is the same, and it is essential to differentiate between clinical and situational depression to determine the most effective treatment plan.
Situational depression in young adults is a type of depression that results from life events or situations, such as a school failures, job loss, or the challenges that arise from not knowing a good way forward. Basically where life feels for them like a poop sandwich.
Our mentors provide guidance, support, and encouragement to young adults experiencing situational depression. They can help their mentees identify their strengths, develop coping mechanisms, and create positive routines that promote well-being. Mentors also help their mentees let go of negative self-speak and embrace positive self-speak. This is a slow process with two steps forward and one step back but the changes tend to be long-lasting and profound. These strategies can be highly effective in reducing symptoms of situational depression and promoting a more positive outlook on life.
However, when these feelings of depression do not change after all of these mentoring techniques, it can be a sign that the depression is more clinical than situational. This is often the time where we work with parents to engage the right medical professionals using the right modes for our mentees. Mentors can help ensure that their mentees receive the right treatment for their condition. This may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Mentors can also support their mentees by providing emotional support, encouragement, and practical assistance to be consistent with treatments throughout the process.
Mentors can work with medical professionals in a variety of ways. For instance, mentors can communicate with parents about their mentee’s improvements or issues with a given treatment plan. They can also help their mentees attend medical appointments and support them in adhering to their treatment plan.
Mentoring young adults can be a powerful tool in helping individuals experiencing situational depression. Mentors can provide emotional support, guidance, and practical assistance to help their mentees manage their symptoms and move towards a more positive outlook on life. However, it is important to remember that depression may require medical intervention in some cases. By working with parents and medical professionals, mentors can ensure that their mentees receive the right treatment for their condition and can provide ongoing support throughout the healing process, allowing us to get back to mentoring our mentees towards success in all aspects of their lives.
We are not our labels!