Can the buddhist religion help my sons depression?
I think changing religions may be a little extreme. I myself suffer from depression as well, and I have found some PARTS of the Buddhist religion to help. (I am also 19). I would suggest the meditation aspect of it first and foremost. I also recommend the theory of balance (Yin and Yang). That is the way I live my life, not that I am telling you how to live yours. It’s just a suggestion. If your son likes the entire idea of Buddhism, that’s great too, just don’t force it on him. Religion never “saves” (no pun intended) anyone from mental illness. I hope this helps!
Bi polar depression often starts at the age of 9 or 10. Anger is sometimes a big part of this illness. Usually a person who is depressed has a hard time concentrating, forming thoughts, remembering. So to learn a religion is probably going to be tough. But any belief system such as buddhism have good things to live by, but please treat depression like an illness and get professional medical help if you haven’t already. There is information and self help groups through the mood disorders association. Also I should mention that just plain clinical depression sometimes has an anger component also.
