Depression

Depression is the most common mental illness in the United States.  According to www.teendepression.org, about 20% of teens will experience depression before they reach adulthood.  What does depression look like and how do you know if you might be experiencing depression?

Common symptoms of depression:

• Changes in sleeping, such as sleeping way more than normal or not being able to sleep very much.
• Lack of interest in things that were once important. For example, not doing favorite activities such as sports, listening to or playing music, or reading favorite magazines or books. 
• Hanging out with a completely different group of friends, or not hanging out with friends at all.
• Changes in eating habits such as eating more than usual or not eating very much.
• Use of drugs or alcohol to numb your feelings.
  

What should you do if you think you’re depressed?

Talk to an adult you trust.  Explain what is going on and ask them if they’ve noticed some of the same symptoms in you lately.  Talk about how you’re feeling and ask them to help you

Ask your parents to take you to your family doctor to rule out anything physical.

Consider asking your parents if you can talk to a community counselor.  A counselor is a great person to talk to because they can offer an unbiased outside   opinion on whatever you’re going through.  They won’t judge you or tell you to just “get over it.”

The most important thing you can do is talk to someone about how you’re feeling.  It’s easy to keep your feelings buried deep inside and just hope they go away.  Untreated depression can lead to suicidal thoughts so don’t let it go that far.  If you are having suicidal thoughts talk to an adult or call our 24/7 hotline immediately.  We’re here to help!!!  Call and talk to one of our crisis counselors at 1-800-448-3000.