Review: Depression: Insights and Tips for Teenagers

Depression: Insights and Tips for Teenagers

by Dr. Cognevich

 

Depressed teenagers are often misjudged as being dramatic, sensitive, moody or attention seeking. Some teens ignore their symptoms thinking these feelings will pass.  Many adults ignore signs of teen depression believing such signs are normal growing pains. According to Depression: Insights and Tips for Teenagers, the second book in the “Empowering You” series, young adults have legitimate feelings that need to be addressed. Teens should not dismiss their feelings as insignificant, and adults should strive to understand what is happening before the pain of depression becomes more destructive. Author Dr. Cognevich writes a compelling blueprint both teens and supportive adults can follow in order to identify, understand, and manage depression.  The anecdotes of her own struggles and that of the many teens with which she works help the readers understand they are not alone. Her practical strategies are easily understood and will help these young adults better their own situations. With each chapter, the author reveals a new skill that should be added to their personal toolboxes.  From recognizing physical changes that act as triggers to stress inventories, teens are learning to cope with their depression one tool at a time.

 

This book is similar in format to Jean Rawitt’s book,  Volunteering: Insights and Tips for Teenagers (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020), which is the first book in the “Empowering You” series.  Both authors advise teens without condescension. Their narrative styles and use of actual teen stories will entice the targeted audience to read more. Where they differ is in their subject matter.  The focus of Volunteering is to show the readers how to live fulfilling lives by giving back to their communities; whereas Depression is about how to live fulfilling lives by recognizing and managing depression .  After reading Dr. Cognevich’s book, young adults will be well equipped with the stamina and tenacity needed to process their depression and navigate their way through any situation. This book is timely and full of practical resources for high school students.

 

Verdict:  Both high school and public libraries will have a better nonfiction collection with the purchase of this book, Depression: Insights and Tips for Teenagers.