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. FACT Depression 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 maturing Independence conflicts with parents Death of a loved one Relationship Break-up Failure at school Child abuse Chronic Illnesses Poor social skills

5. FACT Suicide 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 gain Sleeping too much or too little Fatigue or loss of energy Low self-esteem, feeling guilty Unexplained aches or pain

7. FACT 54% of people believe depression is a personal weakness. … It’s Not!

8. What Happens When depression is Left Untreated? Problems in school Loss of friendships Running away from home Substance abuse (Alcohol, Drugs) Eating disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia) Self injury (Cutting, Burning) Reckless behavior Violence Suicide

9. FACT 41% of depressed girlsare too embarrassed to seek help.

10. What Are the Signs of Suicide? Talking about worthlessness Suddenly being happier or calmer during a depressive episode Talking about dying Listening to songs about death Making arrangements or getting one’s affairs in order Giving away precious possessions.

11. FACT 80% of depressed people are not currently having any treatment.

12. How Can I Deal With My Emotions? It’s not your fault You are not alone Your reactions are normal Your emotions will change Take time to care for yourself Find social support Have hope

13. FACT 92% of depressed African-American males do not seek treatment.

15. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

16. Group or Family therapy

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

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

20. What If There Is An Emergency? If your friend or someone you know is suicidal, go to your local emergency room or call 800-SUICIDE or 911.

21. THE END