Risk Factors
Tiredness and loss of energy
Insomnia
Changes in appetite: decreased appetite and weight loss, or increased cravings for food and weight gain
Substance abuse
Agitation or restlessness — for example, pacing, hand-wringing or an inability to sit still
Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
Frequent complaints of unexplained body aches and headaches, which may include frequent visits to the school nurse
Social isolation
Poor school performance or frequent absences from school
Self neglect
Angry outbursts, disruptive or risky behavior, or other acting-out behaviors
Self-harm — for example, cutting or burning
Protective Factors
Hope for the future/Positive goals
Problem-solving skills
Strong family relationships and positive experiences with parents
Availability of counselors
Attention control: Changing focus from the negative to the positive aspects.
Social Connection: Frequent contact with family and friends and having someone to confide in is the strongest protective factor.
Lifestyle Habits: Regular physical activity (e.g., exercising at least three times a week) and a healthy diet (high in nutrients) can prevent and alleviate depression.
Mental Well-being: High emotional resilience, self-esteem, effective problem-solving skills, and cognitive flexibility.
Environment & Care: Access to quality healthcare, a safe living environment, and, in some contexts, religious or spiritual beliefs that offer purpose.
References Used
Investigating Lifestyle Risk and Protective Factors for Depression in Young Adults: Insights From a Large-Scale Cross-Sectional Study (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12125014/)
Improving Mental Health by Increasing Protective Factors and Reducing Risk Factors (https://extension.usu.edu/mentalhealth/articles/improving-mental-health-by-increasing-protective-factors-and-reducing-risk-factors)
Risk and Protective Factors for Depression in Youth (https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/behaviour-change/article/abs/risk-and-protective-factors-for-depression-in-youth/0C7F57904D63108666591EB1E08F18E5)