Depression in Teens

It is said that "approximately 4 out of 100 teenagers get seriously depressed each year" (Psychology Information Online, 2003, para. 1). Other children, teenagers, and adults experience negative feelings and moments of despondency throughout rough points in their life; however, they are typically overcome with positive encouragement and other focal points. Depression is different. It conquers all thoughts and emotions and transforms them into negative aspects and mental behavior. They are not overcome by prosperity or joyful occurrences, but instead reject that good fortune and transpire it into some form of mental conflict.

Depression can result from anything. Scenarios including divorce, death, and social rejection are more obvious and occur commonly. Other times, it is inevitable. Some individuals just lack the necessary chemistry. They often look for methods of escape; methods that transfigure into drug and alcohol addictions, trouble with society, and other bad habits. These forms of temporary self-rehabilitation allow them to fix their train of thought on present situations, which will inevitably affect their future. Although it is less common, some tend to focus on permanent relief from the tension and result in suicides.

The goal we need to share in helping these individuals is to notice the signs. If depression is sincerely affecting human life, those humans will tend to change significantly. Everything down to their eating habits and social interactions will slowly fade away from the norm. Usually, those with depression will not always seek help right away. In fact, third party members such as family, friends, etc. are first to notice the signs because the individual may not notice the illness just yet. We need to find a way to inject the appropriate measures into their life, such as advice from a professional, or encouragement from family and friends. My personal medicine is a change in routine. Although friendly attempts at resolving individual conflict may temporarily sustain the illness, it will erupt again once the routine returns. A vacation, or even a move will involve a break from routine and require the individual to indulge in other time consuming responsibilities.

I, too, had a slight case of depression when I was in high school. I never asked for assistance in overcoming it; but all the side effects were present and all I wanted to do was lie in bed for 24 hours a day. It lasted a good duration too, until I got up and went to the Marine recruiter's office and requested to leave ASAP. And that is what I did. Before I realized how bad it really was, I was in boot camp without a second to think; literally on my toes every second of sunlight. It was this change of routine and environment that aided in my recovery. I still get the blues from time to time, but nothing preventing me from necessities like eating, sleeping, etc. If you are part of the 4% who come across this article, give a little shout to someone close before it affects the latter of your life. You're not alone.....

Psychology information online: Depression in teenagers. Retrieved Oct 20, 2009 from http://www.psychologyinfo.com/depression/teens.htm