This document discusses adolescent depression, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. It notes that depression affects about 2 million Americans under 18 each year. Left untreated, depression in teens can lead to problems like substance abuse, eating disorders, self-harm, reckless behavior, and suicide. However, more than 80% of depressed teens can be successfully treated with approaches like therapy and antidepressants. The document encourages teens struggling with depression to seek help from trusted individuals like parents, counselors, or medical professionals.

1. AdolescentDepression: It Can Happen To You By: Simona Gizdarska

2. What Is Adolescent Depression?It’s a disorder that occurs during the teenage years and involves persistent sadness, discouragement, loss of self-worth, and loss of interest in unusual activities.

3. FACTDepression affects about 19 million Americans annually. More than 2 million of them have not reached the age of 18.

4. What Are The Causes?Normal process of maturingIndependence conflicts with parentsDeath of a loved one Relationship Break-upFailure at schoolChild abuse Chronic IllnessesPoor social skills

5. FACTSuicide is the third leading cause of death among 15- to 24-year-olds.

6. What Are The Symptoms?Depressed, irritable, sad, or empty mood for at least 2 weeks Decreased interest or enjoyment in once-favorite activities and people Significant weight loss or gainSleeping too much or too littleFatigue or loss of energy Low self-esteem, feeling guiltyUnexplained aches or pain

7. FACT54% of people believe depression is a personal weakness. … It’s Not!

8. What Happens When depression is Left Untreated?Problems in schoolLoss of friendshipsRunning away from homeSubstance abuse (Alcohol, Drugs)Eating disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia)Self injury (Cutting, Burning)Reckless behaviorViolence Suicide

9. FACT41% of depressed girlsare too embarrassed to seek help.

10. What Are the Signs of Suicide?Talking about worthlessnessSuddenly being happier or calmer during a depressive episodeTalking about dyingListening to songs about deathMaking arrangements or getting one’s affairs in orderGiving away precious possessions.

11. FACT80% of depressed people are not currently having any treatment.

12. How Can I Deal With My Emotions? It’s not your faultYou are not aloneYour reactions are normalYour emotions will changeTake time to care for yourselfFind social supportHave hope

13. FACT92% of depressed African-American males do not seek treatment.

14. Can Teen Depression Be Treated?Of Course!More than 80% of teens diagnosed with depression can be treated with no problemTreatments include:Seeing a psychiatrist or psychologist

15. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

16. Group or Family therapy

17. AntidepressantsFACT1in 4 girls and 1 in 8 boys will be diagnosed with depression in their life.

18. Who Should I Turn To?…I’m Just A Kid.Your school guidance counselorYour parents or guardianYour friendsThere is always someone there for you. All you have to do is ask …

19. FACTLess than 33% of teens with depression get help, yet 80%of teens with depression can be successfully treated