Ten percent of teens struggle with depression each year, yet most parents miss the early warning signs until their child is already deep in crisis. The consequences are serious—academic failure, social isolation, substance abuse, and increased risk of self-harm. But here's what most parenting advice gets wrong: your depressed child doesn't need to be treated like an invalid. They need structure, expectations, and the chance to learn they can be tough. This guide shows you exactly how to spot depression early, when to seek help, and how to support your child while building the resilience they need to overcome it.