Depression
Depression is a mood disorder that causes feelings of sadness and loss of interest to do activities. It affects the way you feel, act, and think, and is a serious medical illness. Depression is different from sadness and grief, such as losing a loved one or the ending of a relationship they are hard to go through but it isn’t depression.
Signs & Symptoms
Signs of depression are...
Feeling worthless or guilty
Lack of motivation
Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, and
Loss of energy.
Symptoms must last up to two weeks to be diagnosed with depression. Between 20%-30% of adolescents report having symptoms of depression. The mean age of depression is now 15 years old, right at the age students are in high school. Which makes awareness all the more important
Seeing a doctor and talking about the symptoms is the safest way to handle depression. If you are reluctant to see a doctor for treatment talk to a trusted friend, a loved one, a counselor, or any trusted adult. We'll discuss further how teens can safely receive the help they need and to build confidence to talk to a trusted adult
SAMHSA Treatment Referral Helpline, 1-877-SAMHSA7
(1-877-726-4727)
Get general information on mental health and locate treatment services in your area. Speak to a live person, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,
If you or someone you know is suicidal or in emotional distress, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Trained crisis workers are available to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your confidential and toll-free call goes to the nearest crisis center in the Lifeline national network. These centers provide crisis counseling and mental health referrals.
Emergency Medical Services—911
If the situation is potentially life-threatening, get immediate emergency assistance by calling 911, available 24 hours a day.