- WHAT IS DEPRESSION? It is more than the "blues or ups & downs". When you feel down more than 2 weeks, you may be experiencing depression.
- WHAT CAUSES DEPRESSION? Biological as well as emotional elements, may increase the odds of your becoming depressed. The use of drugs or alcohol can cause depression. Depression can be a family characteristic. Some individuals have a difficult time handling stress. They may have low esteem or may be pessimistic about the future; all these situations can heighten the possibility of being depressed.
- IS DEPRESSION COMMON? According to the Department of Health and Human Services, about 15 million Americans suffer from depression every year. One fourth of all women and one eighth of all men experience depression at some time during their lives. About 3% to 5% of teenagers become depressed each year. If you know 100 teenagers, 4 could be depressed.
- IS IT SERIOUS? Depression has been connected to poor performance in school, truancy, alcohol & drug use, running away, feeling of worthlessness, and suicide. The rate of suicide among teenagers has increased tremendously. Yes, Depression is serious.
- IS IT CURABLE? Most people who are depressed can be helped by psychological therapy, medication or both. The most difficult part to cure is admitting that you need help.
- HOW DO YOU GET HELP? Hopefully, this information will help you to identify depression in yourself and in others. This is the first step towards getting help. Next, you will need to talk to your parents, counselor or other adults about how you feel. An adult may then assist you in finding the help you need.
