Pay attention to the signs
Patton said teens often “feel like they can’t talk to anyone,” and that’s why they turn to social media. She urges parents to pay more attention to, and even limit, their teens’ social media use. This is something she said she regrets not doing with Asya. Swinton said many parents do not pay close enough attention to what their teens are doing online. She suggests parents keep the lines of communication open, and not “shut kids down or misuse their trust.” Now, after understanding more about the role social media can play with teen depression through the Asya Patton Project, Swinton said, “I follow my son on everything.” The ultimate goal of the project is to provide the tools needed to identify and assist teens who may be victims of cyberbullying or suffering from depression, Swinton said. The project is holding monthly Teen Summit meetings for teens to discuss these issues with an expert to help and answer questions, Swinton said. She said she hopes to soon bring the discussion into local schools and churches. “Parents are not seeing the signs,” said Patton, who also urges parents to take notice if their teen seems distant at times. “We want teens to know that there is someone out there but they have to reach out. I want them to know that someone cares.”
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Patton said the past few months have been an “emotional roller coaster,” with good days and bad days. For now, she’s hoping her story will help save others. Visit www.theasyapattonproject.com or www.facebook.com/R.I.P.AsyaMPattonProject for more information about getting involved with the project.
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Asya Patton
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