If you’re a parent wondering how to get a depressed teenager out of bed and off to school, you’re not alone. Depression is a growing concern, particularly among high school students who are facing multiple academic and social pressures. Parents often struggle with how to help their depressed teenager, especially when physically getting out of bed can feel like an insurmountable task.

Understanding the connection between depression and teen school refusal is the first step in supporting your child’s mental health. To help, we’ll provide 8 additional tips that can help parents support their affected teenagers.

Does School Cause Teen Depression?

School can be a significant factor in teen depression. The pressure to excel academically, maintain social relationships, and meet high expectations can take a toll on young minds, and refusing to get out of bed and go to school can often be the result of that.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health 2021 report, approximately 20.1% of adolescents aged 12-17 experience at least one major depressive episode, with school stress being a common trigger. For some teens, school becomes a place of overwhelming anxiety rather than a space for learning and growth.

5 Reasons Why a Teenager Might Not Get Out of Bed

1. Academic Pressure – The fear of failure, overwhelming coursework, and the constant pursuit of high grades can lead to chronic stress.
2. Bullying – Cyberbullying and in-person bullying can deeply impact self-esteem and contribute to depressive symptoms.
3. Lack of Interest in School – When students feel disconnected from their studies, they may become disengaged and unmotivated.
4. Sleep Deprivation – Early school hours combined with late-night homework sessions result in mental exhaustion.
5. Social Isolation – Struggles with friendships, peer pressure, or exclusion can leave teens feeling lonely and unimportant.

Signs That School Might Be Causing Your Teen’s Depression

• Mood Changes – Increased irritability, sadness, or emotional outbursts.
• Substance Use – Some teens turn to alcohol, nicotine, or drugs as a coping mechanism.
• Social Anxiety & Withdrawal – Avoiding school, family, or friends due to overwhelming stress.
• Excessive Sleepiness or Fatigue – Constant exhaustion and difficulty waking up.
• Declining Grades – A sudden drop in academic performance.
• Loss of Interest in Activities – Avoiding hobbies, sports, or extracurriculars they once enjoyed.

8 Ways Parents Can Help Their Depressed Teenager Who Won’t Get Out of Bed

1. Be Supportive & Create Open Communication – Show empathy and validate your teen’s feelings without dismissing them. Many teens experiencing school refusal due to depression feel unheard, so reassure them that they are not alone. Acknowledge their struggles and listen without judgment. Even more, let them know they can talk to you about anything, even if it’s difficult, and if they struggle to express themselves, consider journaling or other forms of expression to help them open up. Above all, try not to minimize their emotions and make them feel unheard. 
2. Help Them Establish a Healthy Sleep Routine – A consistent sleep schedule improves mood and energy levels. Encourage winding-down activities like reading, meditation, or a warm bath before bed, and suggest limited screen time at night to curb blue light exposure and other stimulation before bed. 
3. Encourage Physical Activity – Exercise releases endorphins that boost mental well-being. Even short walks, yoga, or fun physical activities like dancing can help alleviate stress and improve mood – try making it a family activity to provide additional support!
4. Limit Academic Pressure—Avoid unrealistic expectations and celebrate progress over perfection. Remind them that their worth isn’t tied to grades and that learning is more important than achieving top scores. If adjustments are needed, work with teachers or school counselors.
5. Monitor Their Social Media Use – Address cyberbullying and the pressure of online comparison. Encourage breaks from social media and promote in-person interactions by setting limits on screen time and creating opportunities for healthy, real-life social connections.
6. Promote Balance – Encourage relaxation, hobbies, and stress-relieving activities. Try introducing mindfulness practices like deep breathing exercises or guided meditation to help manage anxiety and help them find activities that bring joy, even if they seem small.
7. Explore Alternative Education Options – Homeschooling, tutoring, or adjusted schedules can reduce stress. Some students thrive in non-traditional learning environments where they can learn at their own pace. Discuss options with educators to find the best path forward.
8. Know When to Seek Residential Treatment – When at-home interventions aren’t enough, a structured treatment program like The Ridge RTC may be necessary. If your teen’s depression is severely impacting daily life, school attendance, or their ability to function, professional residential care can provide intensive support in a safe, nurturing environment.

Teen school refusal and depression are serious issues, but with early intervention and parental support, teens can find relief and regain control over their mental health and start to gradually return to school, reestablish a sense of routine, and regain their motivation for learning. The Ridge RTC specializes in residential treatment for teens and young adults, providing a safe and structured environment for recovery.If your child is struggling with depression, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Contact The Ridge RTC to make a life-changing difference!