Motivation can generally be categorized in two different ways: intrinsic and extrinsic.
Simply put, an extrinsic reward or motivation is a cookie or praise from a loved one. An intrinsic reward is the sense of accomplishment and pride when achieving a goal.
Both are important, but intrinsic motivation tends to be more effective, as it represents our inner drive – our emotional needs rather than our wants. It’s great to get the cookie you wanted, but boosting motivation is ultimately more fulfilling if your reasons are near and dear to your heart. This is something explored during teen depression treatment, but it’s also something you can practice daily.
One of the most severe problems with teen depression is that it negatively impacts a person’s capacity to experience intrinsic motivation. Depression motivation is a critical aspect to consider, as low motivation can stem from various factors, including depression itself. On the outside, this makes teens with depression seem listless, if not lazy. But looking deeper within, this is a form of pain that affects nearly every aspect of life in a debilitating way.
Depression also affects extrinsic motivation. A cookie sounds nice, but it might not feel worth the bother. One of the significant symptoms of depression is anhedonia, which ranges from a dampened sense of joy to pure joylessness – things that used to taste good taste less good, and things that used to be fun are less fun. Things that used to be enjoyable are unimportant.
The struggle to feel motivated extends beyond schoolwork or other responsibilities. A depressed teen may struggle to find the motivation to get out of bed, let alone brush their teeth and get dressed.
So, how do you motivate someone with depression? Let’s take a step-by-step approach and understand how to motivate a teenager with depression.
What is Depression, and How Does It Affect Motivation?
Depression is a complex mental health disorder that can significantly impact an individual’s motivation, mood, and overall well-being.
It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in once-enjoyable activities. Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstances, and it is estimated that over 21 million adults in the United States experience depression each year.
Depression can have a profound impact on motivation, leading to feelings of apathy, lethargy, and a general lack of enthusiasm for life.
When teens are depressed, they may struggle to find the motivation to engage in everyday activities, such as getting out of bed, showering, or even eating. This lack of motivation can be physically draining, making it even more challenging to manage daily tasks and responsibilities.
Depression can also affect motivation by altering an individual’s thought patterns and behaviors. Negative thoughts and self-talk can be a common symptom of depression, leading to decreased motivation and a lack of confidence. Additionally, depression can disrupt healthy sleep routines, leading to fatigue, decreased energy, and a further decline in motivation.
It is essential to recognize that depression is a treatable condition, and seeking help from a mental health professional is the first step towards recovery. A mental health professional can help individuals develop coping strategies, work through negative thought patterns, and improve their overall mental health.
In addition to seeking professional help, several strategies can help teenagers boost their motivation when experiencing depression. These include:
- Establishing a healthy sleep routine to improve energy levels and overall well-being
- Engaging in regular exercise to release endorphins and improve mood
- Practicing positive self-talk and challenging negative thought patterns
- Building and maintaining positive relationships with friends and family
- Engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment
By understanding the complex relationship between depression and motivation, individuals can take the first steps toward recovery and regain their enthusiasm for life.
With the right support, treatment, and strategies, teens can learn to manage their depression and find the motivation to live a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Adjust Your Expectations
Depression can be a long-term illness. In some cases, it is tied to circumstances and events. People with depression often lose motivation, experiencing a lack of interest and energy for activities they once enjoyed.
Depression Symptoms Can Be Intense and Long-Lasting
Other forms of depression, like major depressive disorder, can be intense and long-lasting, with no significant cause or trigger. Some teens experience persistent depression or dysthymia, which can last years.
But there are good and bad days in the midst of it all.
No one with depression chooses to be sad, and it’s a fight every day. Some days go better than others, and paying attention to when your teen is feeling better and encouraging them is especially important.
Guilt Comes with Depression
With depression often comes guilt.
Many teens who experience depression feel ashamed about their behavior while depressed. They want to do more, but they feel like they can’t. They want to do better, but they feel smothered.
Recognizing small accomplishments can help in feeling motivated, especially for those who find it challenging due to depression. It’s a negative cycle, and it is only made worse by the negative observations of others.
Avoid Using Terms Like “Lazy”
Calling someone with depression lazy or telling them to “simply” try harder will result in the opposite. Fewer good days and more bad days.
Patience and consistent support are best. Be in your teen’s corner. Know that they’re doing their best, even when they don’t seem to be doing much of anything.
And when they do get things done, let them know that you’re proud of their efforts.
How to Motivate a Teenager with Depression Using Affirmations
Affirmations are essential in the long-term management of depression. They are the bread-and-butter of emotional support loved ones can offer a depressed teenager.
Recurring Negative Thoughts
Recurring negative thoughts are a pillar of a depressive mood disorder, and fighting against those thoughts with positive affirmations helps your teen understand that the people around them support and believe in them. Think of it as fighting negativity daily.
Positive Affirmations Your Teen Can Practice
Encouraging your teen to repeat affirmations back to themselves can be annoying, but it also helps. Vocalizing it – giving the positive thought a voice – can make a meaningful difference over time.
Some positive affirmations your teen might want to try or hear can include:
- You’ve made it through other challenges and got this one, too.
- You’re capable and strong. Depression does not control you at all times.
- You’re not alone; many others are fighting against dark thoughts, too, and your family/friends are here.
- I’m proud of you for today/what you’ve done/what you’re doing.
- It’s one step at a time, one day at a time.
- You deserve to be happy.
- You’re valuable, even when you don’t feel productive.
- You are worthy of love and kindness, even on the hardest days.
- Every step forward, no matter how small, is progress.
- Your feelings are valid, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.
- You are more than your struggles, and they do not define you.
- It’s okay to take breaks; rest is an important part of healing and getting help.
- You’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough.
- Even when it feels tough, you’re showing incredible strength just by getting through each day.
- You have the power to change your thoughts, and with time, they will become more positive.
- I see your effort, and I appreciate all that you’re doing to take care of yourself.
- Your journey is unique, and it’s okay to take it at your own pace.
- You’re capable of creating a life filled with peace, joy, and purpose.
- It’s okay not to have everything figured out right now; you’re allowed to grow and evolve at your own speed.
- You are resilient, and no matter how difficult things get, you have the strength to overcome them.
- You are loved for exactly who you are.
9 Warning Signs of Adolescent Depression
Look For Help Together
A parent or friend cannot take away a teen’s depression. But they can do everything in their power to help fight it.
Exploring the Benefits of Teen Depression Treatment with a Mental Health Professional
In addition to positive affirmations, thoughts, and support, one of the most impactful ways you can make a difference in a depressed teen’s life is by encouraging them to explore the benefits of teen depression treatment and supporting them throughout the process.
A teen struggling with depression may feel reluctant or even resistant to seeking help, especially if they feel ashamed or misunderstood.
However, understanding that professional treatment is a vital step in managing and overcoming depression can be a game-changer. It’s important to approach this conversation with empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental attitude, allowing your teen to express their concerns and fears about treatment.
Start by providing information about different treatment options, such as therapy (individual or group), medication, or holistic approaches like mindfulness and exercise.
Emphasize that treatment is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step toward healing. You can share success stories of others who have benefited from therapy, offering hope and perspective.
Suggesting Therapy Isn’t Enough, Get Involved
It’s not enough to suggest therapy.
- Talk to your teen about seeing a professional together.
- Help them find the right therapist or treatment program and plan
- Attend initial sessions with your teen (if they are open to it)
- Drive them to their sessions.
- Remind them to keep up with any homework or assignments given by their therapist
- Suggest or talk to the therapist about family therapy or joint sessions.
- Be involved and learn more about how you can help your teen – such as reminding them to take care of their daily journaling or asking about their therapy homework.
By doing these things, it shows that you are invested in their progress and reinforces that you care. It also helps to reduce any feelings of isolation or fear they may have about the journey.
Additionally, through this supportive involvement, you can help create a safe environment where healing is not only possible but encouraged.
Extrinsic Motivation to Manage Depressive Thoughts
Remember, extrinsic motivation can still work.
Talk to your teen about ways to help promote healthy habits that can contribute to managing depressive thoughts.
For example, extra game time if they promise to go for a daily walk, and so on.
Avoid Judging or Scolding Them
Understandably, seeing a teen struggle day in and day out with even basic tasks and responsibilities can make some parents feel frustrated and angry – but taking that anger out on your teen will always backfire when the enemy in question is their mental health.
Negative emotions feed on other negative emotions, and combating depression with scolding and anger may elicit a short-term burst of energy out of fear or shame.
Still, it will only make things much, much worse. Patience and positivity are key.
Test Your Teen for Learning Disabilities and Other Conditions
Depression often co-occurs with a variety of other mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, including learning disabilities such as dyslexia, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anxiety disorders.
These conditions can interact with and be exacerbated by depression symptoms, creating a complex web of challenges that can make it even more difficult for teens to progress in their treatment journey.
For instance, a teen with ADHD might already struggle with maintaining focus and motivation, and the added weight of depression can further decrease motivation and make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. Similarly, anxiety disorders can intensify negative thoughts and feelings, contributing to a cycle of low self-esteem and decreased motivation.
The Road Won’t Be Easy, But Persistence Is Key
Understanding how to motivate a teen with depression isn’t easy. But with dedication and patience, as well as a willingness to provide consistent support, it’s possible to help them rediscover their sense of purpose and motivation.
By recognizing the challenges they face, adjusting expectations, and encouraging small, manageable steps, you can empower them to regain control over their lives and work toward healing slowly.
Find Teen Depression Treatment at Visions
If your teen is struggling in multiple areas, they may require more comprehensive care than what outpatient treatment can provide.
An inpatient treatment facility like Visions Treatment Centers offers a supportive environment where teens can receive specialized treatment tailored to their unique needs. Our treatment center provides a structured setting where a team of mental health professionals can address co-occurring disorders, offering therapies and interventions that can make all the difference in a teen’s recovery process.
With the right support network, teens can find motivation and take significant steps forward in managing their mental health.
Still hesitant? Give us a call or contact us today.
