If your teen is in immediate danger, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
Signs of depression in teens
Teen depression often looks more like irritability than sadness. Watch for patterns that last two weeks or longer:
- Pulling away from friends, family or youth group
- Sleeping much more or much less than usual
- Quitting sports or activities they once loved
- Grades slipping and "I don't care" as the answer to everything
- Changes in appetite or energy
- Talking about feeling worthless, hopeless or like a burden
How Joe helps
Depression tells teens that nothing will help, so the first job is to get some momentum back. Joe works with teens to rebuild daily routines, reconnect with people and activities that matter, and challenge the harsh voice that says they're failing. He helps teens separate who they are from how they perform, which matters a lot for driven kids and athletes.
Joe's style is warm, direct and even a little fun. Teens who walked in expecting a lecture usually find someone they actually want to talk to.
The high-achiever who's quietly struggling
Some of the most depressed teens Joe works with are the ones with the best résumés. Straight A's, varsity starter, leader in student ministry, and privately exhausted and empty. Shame keeps them quiet. Counseling gives them a place to stop performing.
Faith and depression
Christian teens sometimes believe depression means their faith is weak. Joe has spent 15 years in youth ministry and wrote More Than OK, a faith-based curriculum on anxiety and depression used with teens at Saddleback Church. He helps teens see that struggling is human, and that God meets them in it.
Frequently asked questions
Will asking about suicide put the idea in my teen's head?
No. Research consistently shows that asking directly about suicidal thoughts does not increase risk, and it often brings relief. If your teen is in danger, call or text 988 or call 911.
My teen refuses to go to therapy. What can I do?
Virtual sessions from home lower the barrier a lot. Joe is also experienced with reluctant teens and often starts by simply building a connection. Parents can schedule the consultation call first.
Do you coordinate with doctors?
Yes. With your permission, Joe can coordinate with your pediatrician or psychiatrist, especially if medication is part of the plan.