Coping skills for managing depression are techniques that help individuals handle their feelings and improve their mood. Common methods include engaging in activities like exercise, journaling, or talking to a friend. As awareness of mental health issues increases, these skills are becoming more important for dealing with stress.
The Depression Coping Skills (PDF) is a collection of six (6) handouts designed to assist young people in managing their emotions and improving their mental health. It covers information on the causes and symptoms of depression, as well as practical strategies and positive behaviors that can help reduce feelings of depression.
Using these handouts can help kids and teens feel empowered to take an active role in managing depression. Caring adults should sit down with their child to review each handout together and make sure that they understand the content.
It’s important to remind kids that consistent practice of coping skills can maximize results. Doing regular check-ins to talk about progress and challenges can provide ongoing support.
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Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of depression worksheets and handouts.
References:
- Bugalski, K., & Frydenberg, E. (2000). Promoting effective coping in adolescents ‘at-risk’ for depression. Australian Journal of Guidance and Counselling, 10(1), 111-132. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1037291100004180
- Cohen, O. B., Shahar, G., & Brunstein Klomek, A. (2020). Peer victimization, coping strategies, depression, and suicidal ideation among young adolescents. Crisis, 41(3), 156-162. https://doi.org/10.1027/0227-5910/a000614
- Horwitz, A. G., Hill, R. M., & King, C. A. (2010). Specific coping behaviors in relation to adolescent depression and suicidal ideation. Journal of Adolescence, 34(5), 1077-1085. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2010.10.004
- Sawyer, M. G., Pfeiffer, S., & Spence, S. H. (2009). undefined. Journal of Affective Disorders, 117(1-2), 48-54. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2008.12.013
- Vucenovic, D., Sipek, G., & Jelic, K. (2023). The role of emotional skills (Competence) and coping strategies in adolescent depression. European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education, 13(3), 540-552. https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe13030041
