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What is depression?

As a teenager, there are so many changes taking place that it can be very overwhelming. You might feel like you are in a great mood one minute and a bad one the next. This roller coaster of emotions is normal, as is having the blues sometimes. But it is important to know the difference between having the blues and having depression. Depression is a serious illness that affects many young people, and even more young people who have a disability or illness. The good news is, though, that depression can be treated along with your health issue. Make sure to talk to your doctor about any worries you have about depression.

• Depresssion
• The blues

How will I know if I have depression?  top

While some signs of depression can seem a lot like having the blues, there is a way to know if you need to talk to ask your doctor about depression. Ask your doctor about depression if:

• You have five or more of the symptoms listed below, or
• Any one of these symptoms gets in the way of school or family life.

Symptoms of Depression top

• Sadness or crying that you can’t explain and lasts a long time
• Major changes in the way you eat and sleep
• Being crabby, angry, worried or nervous
• Feeling negative or not caring about anything
• Feeling guilty or like you are not worth anything
• Not being able to focus or make a decision
• Not being able to enjoy the things you usually enjoy
• Not wanting to spend time with your friends
• Having aches and pains that you can’t explain, such as headaches
• Thinking a lot about death or suicide

If your doctor decides that you do have depression, there are many ways it can be treated. The important thing is to get help. By treating your depression, it will also help you manage your main illness or disability. 

Helpful Tool top

'Let’s Talk About Depression' is a useful guide from the National Institute of Mental Health. 

I am sad, moody, or just plain down. What can I do? top

Being sad sometimes is normal and there are things you can do to cheer yourself up. Try these tips to improve your mood and feel happier:

• Know that what you are going through is very common.
• Find a way to relax yourself, such as sitting down and taking a deep breath or taking a shower.
• Talk to your friends, parents/guardians, teachers, counselors, or doctors about what you are feeling. They can help you sort through your emotions and help you to feel less alone.
• Get some exercise. When you exercise, your body makes endorphins. Endorphins are hormones, which are natural body chemicals. Endorphins help control stress and improve your mood.
• Make sure that you get enough rest. Being tired can make you feel more stressed.

Content last updated June 2, 2007

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