Let's Talk About Depression
Approximately 4 out of 100 teenagers get seriously depressed each year. Sure, everybody feels sad or blue now and then. But if you're sad most of the time, and it's giving you problems with:
your grades
your relationships with your family and friends
alcohol, drugs, or sex
controlling your behavior in other ways
then the problem may be - DEPRESSION
The good news is.... you can get treatment and FEEL BETTER SOON
What is Depression?
Clinical Depression is a serious illness that can affect anybody, including teenagers. It can affect your thoughts, feelings, behavior, and overall health.
Most people with depression can be helped with treatment. But, most depressed people never get the help they need. And, when depression isn't treated, it can get worse, last longer, and prevent you from getting the most out of your life. Remember, you're only a teenager once.
How do I know when I'm depressed?
How can I tell if a friend might be depressed?
First, there are two kinds of depression: The sad kind, called major depression, dysthymia or reactive depression, and manic-depression or bipolar illness, when feeling down and depressed alternates with being speeded-up and sometimes acting reckless.
If you have had several of these symptoms, and they've lasted several weeks, or cause a big change in your routine, you should talk to someone who can help, like a psychologist, or your school counselor!
