DEPRESSION
Around 20% of teens will experience depression before adulthood
This is "highly treatable" with majority of students being able to recover after seeking treatment
Many Causes
Depression can be brought on from many factors: biological, environmental, genetic, or psychological
Treatable
Very Common
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Impactful
It is the third largest cause of death in teens, which can be prevented.
Not Just a "Blue Mood"
It's not the same as having a bad day or being sad. Depression is continuous, lasting longer than 2 weeks.
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WARNING SIGNS
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Long periods of sadness or "feelings of emptiness"
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Feeling hopeless or helpless
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Feeling guilty or worthless
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More irritable than usual
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Restless
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Hard to concentrate and pay attention
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More fatigued, low energy
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Difficulty going to sleep or oversleeping
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Changes in appetite (increased or decreased appetite)
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Increased headaches, stomachs, or chronic pain
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Not interested in previously enjoyed activities like sports or hobbies
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Distancing self from friends and family with decreased social interaction
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Having thoughts of death or suicide
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Decreased performance at school
Coping strategies
Meditation
Exercise
Improve your Sleep
Meditation is a powerful tool that many people utilize to calm themselves down, and has actually been proven to change certain areas in the brain that are linked to depression. This can help people feel more control over their symptoms and lives.
Although exercising isn't always the most appealing, once you get out and get moving it can actually make you feel a lot better. Getting consistent exercise builds neural connections in the hippocampus, which regulates mood, thus easing depression symptoms. Start with something small like a 5 minute walk until it becomes a habit!
Workout Songs:
Whether your struggling to fall asleep or you can't seem to stop sleeping, it is important to try and develop a strong and consistent sleep schedule. This can not only improve your mood throughout the day but also brain function. Try out this relaxation technique and learn more about how to improve your sleep.
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Depression isn't a sign of weakness, and it's not something you can just 'snap out of'. It requires professional treatment, and with the right care people can get better."
-American Psychological Association
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If you think you might be dealing with depression, don't be afraid to ask for help! You are not alone and you can feel better.
REACH OUT
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In-Person
Talking to a friend, family member, or trusted adult about what you're feeling can help others understand what you're going through and make it easier for people to help you. Don't be afraid of being open with someone.
Digitally
If you aren't sure where to turn you can also talk to someone digitally.
Connect with a Crisis Counselor
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Text HOME to 741741
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24/7 support
National Suicide Preventioin Lifeline
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Call 1-800-273-8255
Although there are great coping methods, nothing can replace the benefit of actually seeking professional treatment. If you feel like you may be experiencing depression, schedule an appointment with your family physician, local psychologist, or see your school counselor. Seeing a licensed professional can give you an accurate diagnosis and also refer you to other resources. Depression isn't something you can just get over by sucking it up; it requires professional care, so don't be afraid in asking for help.
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