Mental Health Matters - Depression
It is normal to feel down or blue occasionally, but if you have been having feelings of sadness or irritability, that won't go away you may be dealing with depression. Depression is very common and can affect anyone at any age, including teens and young adults.
Depression is an illness that can affect your feelings, thoughts and behaviors. If you think that you might be depressed, you are not alone. Research indicates that as many as 1 in 8 teens and young adults may have depression.
As young women hit puberty, rates of depression in women increase dramatically. Some factors involved include:
Early physical maturation compared to your peers. If you are developing physically earlier than your friends, the attention and stress this causes can be very difficult to handle, and this can lead to depression.
Body dissatisfaction and eating disorders. For young women, the pressure to look a certain way can be tremendous. Almost all young women are dissatisfied with their bodies to some extent, and for some this can become a major problem, leading to eating disorders, anxiety and depression.
Social role expectations. For many young women, adolescence represents a time when they first really start realizing what is expected of women by mainstream society - you need to be the perfect wife, mother, and professional, all at once! This is another factor that can lead to depression.
Signs & Symptoms of Depression
Depression has a number of signs and symptoms. The following symptoms may be a sign that you are experiencing depression, especially if they last for two weeks or longer.
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Persistently sad, anxious, irritable or empty mood
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Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
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Withdrawal from friends and family
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Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
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Significant change in appetite and/or weight
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Anger and rage
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Overreaction to criticism
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Feeling unable to meet expectations
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Difficulty thinking, concentrating, remembering or making decisions
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Feeling restless or agitated
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Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness or guilt
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Abusing alcohol or drugs
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Thoughts of death or suicide
Remember these warning signs should be taken seriously. Get help immediately.
Our online screenings are designed for adults. If you are
under the age of 18 and believe you or one of your friends has depression, talk with a trusted adult (ex: teacher, school counselor, principal, coach, parent or other family member, clergyperson, physician, etc.) who can help you find the help that you need. Never keep talk of suicide a secret even if your friend has asked you to. Take it seriously and seek help immediately from a trusted adult. It is better to risk losing a friendship than to risk losing a friend forever.
Getting Help
Where Can I Get Help?
If you think you may be depressed, seek professional help. If you are depressed, a professional can work with you to develop a
treatment plan. Here are some professionals that you can talk to:
Other resources for getting help include:
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Counseling Center on your campus
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Your health plan or employee assistance program (EAP)
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Community mental health centers
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Social service agencies
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Private clinics
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Local Support Groups
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Click here for a list of support groups in the Milwaukee Area
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Religious or Spiritual settings
How to Help a Friend
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Offer help and listen. Encourage your friend to talk about their feelings. Listen don't lecture.
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Trust your instincts. If the situation seems serious, get help right now. Tell a secret, if necessary, in order to save a life. Alert key adults (family, friends, teachers, coaches...)
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Pay attention to talk about suicide. Don't be afraid that asking someone about suicide will give someone an idea.
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Seek professional help. It is essential to speak with your doctor or a mental health professional. Urge your friend to seek out help. You can even offer to go with them.
Click
here for more tips on how to help a friend.
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Related Article
A Lifeline for College Students With Depression:
Mental illness can be particularly burdensome for college students, who may be far from home and their support systems. Chapters of the student group Active Minds offer help. Read more on NPR, 9/25/08
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