Depression: A Guide for Teens

Depression:

A Guide for Teens

What should I do if I'm feeling down?

There are days that you will feel down, when the demands of school, work, or life get to you. These feelings are normal and will go away. At these times, you should take a break and do something you enjoy. Spend time with friends, exercise, read a good book, listen to music, call a friend, talk to your parents. Do something that makes you feel good.

What if it's more serious than feeling down?

Sometimes, feeling down can get more serious and you can become depressed. Depression can be treated. If you have trouble getting up in the morning and doing the things you normally do, or if you have had thoughts of suicide or of harming others, you may be depressed. If you have had any of the following symptoms for 2 weeks or more, see a counselor at your school, talk to your health care provider, or talk to another trusted adult right away.

Here are some symptoms of depression:

Sad mood
Not able to enjoy things that you normally enjoy
Sleep problems (you sleep too much or too little)
Really tired, not able to concentrate, very little energy
Eating problems (you eat too much or too little)
Feel that you are worthless and there's no hope
Feel angry or irritable frequently
Use of alcohol or drugs
High-risk behaviors
Feel that you want to die

If you have some of the symptoms above, it is important to see a counselor! And if you have any friends that you think may be depressed, suggest that he/she see a counselor as soon as possible. You can find a counselor by going to your school guidance department or counseling center or a health center or doctor. If you wish, they can provide a referral to a therapist in your community. There are also medications that can help depression. Ask your health care provider or therapist.

If you have any thoughts of hurting yourself, you should get help right away. Call your doctor or go to the nearest emergency room.

Written by the Young Men's Health Staff

Updated 2/5/2008

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