My daughter has been very depressed for the last several months. She was very withdrawn and rarely wanted to come out of her room. At one time we were even fearful we would have to hospitalize her because she was threatening to hurt herself. All of the sudden this week she seems to be feeling much better. She is more social and interactive and is spending more time with the family. I know I should be happy and I am but something doesn’t feel right and I feel like I am just waiting for the next shoe to drop…she seems just a little ‘too happy’.

Answer: As a parent, I think we should always listen to that little voice in our head or those feelings that tell us that everything may not be as it seems. A good first step may be to talk with your daughter and let her know that you noticed that she seems to be feeling a lot better and ask if she knows what is helping her to feel that way? Also if your daughter is currently being treated by a therapist (or even if she is not) you may want to contact a therapist about the change- In some very depressed individuals (especially those who have struggled with suicidal thought) a sudden positive mood and outlook can be a sign of a heightened suicide risk. When in doubt it always good to trust your instincts and ask questions.