The Depression

Most teenager's have the same problem, which is depression. Teenage depression isn’t just bad moods and occasional melancholy. Depression is a serious problem that impacts every aspect of a teen’s life. Left untreated, teen depression can lead to problems at home and school, drug abuse, self-loathing may cause even irreversible tragedy such as homicidal violence or suicide.
There are as many misconceptions about teen depression as there are about teenagers in general. Yes, the teen years are tough, but most teens balance the requisite angst with good friendships, success in school or outside activities, and the development of a strong sense of self.Occasional bad moods or acting out is to be expected, but depression is something different.
Depression can destroy the very essence of a teenager’s personality, causing an overwhelming sense of sadness, despair, or anger.
Whether the incidence of teen depression is actually increasing, or we’re just becoming more aware of it, the fact is that depression strikes teenagers far more often than most people think. Unlike adults, who have the ability to seek assistance on their own, teenagers usually must rely on parents, teachers, or other caregivers to recognize their suffering and get them the treatment they need.
Teenagers face a host of pressures, from the changes of puberty to questions about who they are and where they fit in. The natural transition from child to adult can also bring parental conflict as teens start to assert their independence. With all this drama, it isn’t always easy to differentiate between depression and normal teenage moodiness. Making things even more complicated, teens with depression do not necessarily appear sad, nor do they always withdraw from others. For some depressed teens, symptoms of irritability, aggression, and rage are more prominent.
Sadness or hopelessness,irritability, anger, or hostility,tearfulness or frequent crying,withdrawal from friends and family,loss of interest in activities,changes in eating and sleeping habits,restlessness and agitation,feelings of worthlessness and guilt,lack of enthusiasm and motivation,fatigue or lack of energy,difficulty concentrating ,thoughts of death or suicide are the signs of depression among teenagers.
If you are a teen who has suffered from depression, or who has other risk factors for teen depression, there are some things you can do to help prevent an episode of depression,avoid drugs and alcohol,associate with friends who have positive goals, such as going to college, and/or are involved in positive activities,develop a good social support system with family members, teachers, and/or friends; some areas also have group therapy and support groups for people with depression and those who are at risk,learn healthy ways to deal with choices, stress, and life changes,get cognitive-behavioral therapy, which will help you to recognize if you have negative thought patterns and to change those patterns,take any medication prescribed to you as directed; consult with a doctor before stopping medication or trying alternative medications,eat a healthy, well-balanced diet,get exercise, which helps manage stress and fight depression.
get enough sleep; it helps to keep a regular schedule, avoid having distractions in the bedroom (such as homework or television), and exercise earlier in the day, not close to when you go to sleep.Consider keeping a journal or finding other positive ways to deal with your emotions and notice any possible triggers for depression. Allow time for normal grieving after a loss, but if recovery does not occur, seek counseling.Avoid anything you know may trigger depression for you, including music, activities, people, or styles of dress and grooming that bring on feelings of depression.