In a time where kids are cutting because it’s cool, people are killing to impress Slender Man, and joking about death is commonplace, it is crucial to watch for signs of depression in children.

I have worked with a number of teenagers that say they use this “joke” with their friends. When I ask if it actually hurts, they say yes, but they continue to say it to others and not defend themselves. Almost all of the kids I see have lost someone to suicide. Have a talk with your kids and explain the importance of only saying what you truly mean. The prevalence of social media and trolls on the internet lead to massive amounts of anonymous hostility and bullying. To decrease the chances of a child being bullied online, monitor all of your child’s social media accounts and set time restrictions. Research parent safety controls if you want to start monitoring, but do not get complacent. For every parental attempt to monitor online activity, kids may be finding loopholes and other ways to access things.

Signs you child may be feeling more than normal teenage angst:

• Loss of interest in activities.
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits.
• Tearfulness or frequent crying.
• Poor school performance.

Read more about signs to watch for and ways to help in this Parent’s Guide to Teen Depression.