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Teen Depression

Depression is a very serious issue, for adults and teens alike. Depression is actually a very common problem no matter who it affects and at what age. If you think you might be experiencing symptoms similar to depression it is critical that you evaluate your symptoms and seek out help if necessary. Nearly two thirds of teens have depression at some point or another that goes unnoticed.

What are the common signs of depression?

  • Persistent feelings of sadness.
  • Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness.
  • Decreased interest in school or friends.
  • Alcohol or drug abuse.
  • Feeling suicidal.

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Who gets depressed?

Anyone is susceptible to the effects of depression. One in eight teens is estimated to be suffering from depression. Though depression is more common among women, it can occur in people of any age, race, educational status or income level. If you have a parent or other family member that is depressed, you are more likely to develop depression yourself. If you have been physically or emotionally abused or mistreated at any point in time, you are also at an increased risk for developing depression.

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What are the key symptoms I should look for?

  • If you have four or more of the following symptoms, it is possible that you might be suffering from depression. You should seek out help immediately.
  • Lack of interest in social activities and hobbies you normally enjoy.
  • Feeling down more often than not.
  • Feeling irritable.
  • Weight loss or gain that is noticeable and dramatic.
  • Feeling suicidal or thinking about death a lot.
  • Feeling guilty.
  • Having low sense of self esteem.
  • Experiencing difficulty concentrating or thinking.
  • Sleeping too much or feeling sleepy all the time.
  • Frequent Headaches.
  • Changes in your grades.

“In some cases depression might be severe and lead to suicide. If you are feeling very low or suicidal, you should seek out help immediately. There are many national organizations dedicated to helping teens suffering from suicide.”

Many teens who are depressed turn to alcohol or other drugs, and are more likely to be sexually active. If you are a big risk taker, you might be suffering from some form of depression.

What can I do if I am depressed?

The first step toward recovery is treatment. It is essential that you get a diagnosis from a qualified health care professional if you think you might be suffering from depression. There are many treatment options available including medication and counseling. In some cases it might be necessary that you seek out treatment from a specialist.