# What should I do if my depressed teenager refuses treatment? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-to-do-if-my-depressed-teenager-refuses-treatment Language: en Category: mental_health Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.447Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.447Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-to-do-if-my-depressed-teenager-refuses-treatment If your teenager with depression refuses treatment, it is important to remain supportive and look for ways to help them understand the importance of seeking help. Depression is a serious illness that requires treatment, and a teenager's refusal to accept it may stem from feelings of fear, isolation, or a lack of understanding. Effective treatment for adolescent depression may involve talk therapy, or a combination of talk therapy and medication. Talk to your teenager openly and calmly about their feelings and concerns regarding treatment. Try to listen without judgment, and reassure them that you are there to support them. It may be helpful to find a mental health professional who can speak with the teenager in a way that encourages them to open up and accept help. [\[1\]]() ## Understanding the reasons for refusing treatment Teenagers may refuse treatment for various reasons, including the stigma associated with mental health, fear of the unknown, or not realizing the severity of their condition. Some teenagers feel ashamed or embarrassed to admit that they are suffering from a mental health problem and may fear the reaction of their peers or families. Depression itself can lead to low energy and a loss of motivation, making the idea of starting treatment feel overwhelming. [\[3\]]() It is important to remember that depression is not just a passing feeling of sadness; it is a serious medical illness that affects how a teenager feels, thinks, and behaves. [\[2\]]() ## Available treatment options for adolescents Effective treatment for adolescent depression often involves talk therapy (psychotherapy or counseling) or a combination of talk therapy and medication. [\[1\]]() - **Talk therapy:** This type of therapy helps adolescents understand and manage their moods and feelings. It can include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps identify and change negative and unhelpful thoughts, or interpersonal therapy (IPT), which focuses on improving relationships. [\[1\]]() - **Medication:** In some cases, a doctor may suggest antidepressant medication alongside talk therapy. It is important to follow up with the doctor regularly when taking medication, and it may take some time (usually 3 to 4 weeks) for the medication to start showing its effect. [\[1\]]() Some teenagers suffering from severe depression or who are at risk of harming themselves may require intensive treatment, such as hospitalization in a psychiatric facility or day-care programs. [\[1\]]() ## How to encourage a teenager to accept help Consistent encouragement and support from parents or guardians can help a teenager accept treatment. Try to be a positive model for dealing with mental health, and avoid stigmatizing mental illness. Find a mental health professional experienced in working with teenagers, as they may be able to build a trusting relationship with your child. You can also visit the page [Teen Depression: Warning Signs, Risk Factors, and How to Seek Help (Arabic)]() for additional information on how to support teenagers. ## When to seek emergency help If your teenager is thinking about death or suicide, or has thoughts of harming themselves, it is essential to seek immediate help. [\[2\]]() Do not hesitate to call a crisis hotline or head to the nearest emergency room. Any sign of self-harm or suicide must be taken seriously. [\[2\]]() ## Medical references - [Teen Depression]() - [Depression Screening]() - [Teens are talking about mental health]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-to-do-if-my-depressed-teenager-refuses-treatment#answer