Depression
Everybody feels sad sometimes. This is normal for all of us. Being a teenager can be full of conflicts as you are learning to balance the demands of competition, grades, friendships, complicated family relationships, discrimination and other problems. It is easy to feel overwhelmed and to need some time to figure these things out for yourself.
Depression, not just having a depressed mood, is an illness. It is characterized by continuing feelings of being hopeless, or helpless to make things better in your life. Someone who is truly depressed may feel worthless. They may experience a lot of physical symptoms like stomachaches, headaches or headaches that don't seem to have a medical cause. They may feel restless and experience difficulty concentrating or sleeping, and even think about suicide.
Depression has been linked to poor academic performance, truancy, delinquency, drug and alcohol abuse, and other self destructive behaviors. If you have the following symptoms, please seek help from a medical professional.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
- You are sleeping a lot or are unable to sleep
- You have gained or lost a large amount of weight
- You have no interest in your friends or the things you used to like to do
- You cry all the time
- You are not able to control your anger
- You have seen a change in your grades
You may not always recognize these signs in yourself, but others may. If you feel you are being pushed with questions, from your parents or friends, it may be because they recognize a change in you and are trying to find a way to help. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
