Depression

How Do I Know When I'm Depressed?

If you are having any of the following "symptoms" for more than a few weeks, you may be depressed:

Frequent vague, non-specific physical complaints.
Frequent absences from school.
Grades in school change.
Thinking of running away from home.
Lack of interest in friends.
Alcohol or substance abuse.
Fear of death.
You feel like taking more risks.
Difficulty with relationships.
You feel sad or cry a lot and it doesn't go away.
Guilty for no reason.
You feel like you're no good.
Feel like nothing good will happen again.
You have a negative attitude a lot of the time.
You don't feel like having fun.
You are confused.
You get irritated often.
Your sleeping is disturbed.
You are sleeping either more or less than usual.
You’re eating much more or much less than before.
You feel tired most of the time.

Myths and Facts About Depression

Myth: Talking about depression makes you more depressed.
Fact: Talking about your feelings to a friend, your parents, or a counselor can help.

Myth: Teenagers are just "moody"; they really can’t be depressed.
Fact: Depression can affect anyone and it is more than just "moodiness".

Myth: Depression goes away on its own, it’s really no big deal.
Fact: If you’re depressed, you shouldn’t have to handle it on your own. You may need to talk to a counselor or other professional who can help.

These are some of the myths about depression that might affect you. Adults may think it is really easy to be a kid. They often forget what troubles they faced when they were your age. They may view childhood or adolescence as an ideal time with no cares and no responsibilities. Or they may surprise you, and really be able to understand and listen to you. Try talking to an adult you trust, or call the Kids' Helpline and ask to speak to a counselor at 716-834-1144 or on our toll free line at 1(877)KIDS-400.

What Should I Do If I Am Depressed?

Talk to someone you trust.
Talk to your parents. Ask them to take you to talk to a counselor. (See the Links below for more information!)
Call the Kids' Helpline at 716-834-1144 or toll free at 1(877)KIDS-400 today!

Depression: Local Resources and Additional Resources & Links