The teenage years can be difficult, everybody knows that. So don't feel bad if you feel sad or annoyed every so often. But if these feelings don't go away or they become unbearable then you may be suffering from depression. But there is good news. There is help available for you or someone you know. You don't have to go through this alone.
What depression feels like:
When you are experiencing depression it can feel like no one understands what you are going through. Depression is alot more common in teens then you might think. You are not by yourself in the world, and you can beat depression with the right treatment and healthy choices.
Signs and symptoms of teen depression:
It is difficult to explain how depression feels like but here are some common symptoms you may experience with depression.
-You constantly feel irritable, sad, or angry.
-Nothing seems fun anymore, and you just don’t see the point of trying.
-You feel bad about yourself
-You sleep too much or not quite enough
-You have frequent, unexplained headaches or other physical problems.
-Anything and everything makes you cry.
-You’ve gained or lost weight without really trying to.
-You just can’t concentrate.
-You feel helpless and hopeless .
You’re thinking about death or suicide. (If this is true, talk to someone right away!)
Talking to an adult you trust about teen depression:
Let's face it, your parents love you. It may not seem like it sometimes but they do. And it hurts them to see you in pain. And they want to help you. Just try to remeber this when you are asking for help. They love and care about you.
The importance of accepting and sharing your feelings:
Accepting and sharing your feelings is very improtant. You have to remember that everyone goes through these feelings at one point in there lives. These feelings don't mean your weak or no good they mean that you are human. Accepting your feeling and sharing with someone you trust makes you one step closer to beating depression and it will make you feel less alone.
What you can do to feel better: Tips for depressed teens:
-Try not to be by yourself
-Keep your body healthy
-Avoid alcohol and drugs
-Ask for help if you’re stressed
-Talk to people who love you and you can trust
-Surround yourself with positive people
THE INSIDER: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TEENAGE DEPRESSION
Silence is the most powerful scream.
-Anonymous
If you are suffering and don’t know where to turn...
In the U.S., call the Nineline.org hotline for children and teens at 1-800-999-9999. It’s free, confidential, and available from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Eastern Time, seven days a week.
In the UK, call the Childline.org.uk helpline for children and teens at 0800 1111.
In Australia, call the Lifeline.org.aus 24-hour helpline at 13 11 14.
In Canada, call the KidsHelpPhone.ca helpline at 1-800-668-6868.