Being a teenager is difficult, and it’s getting harder as the world becomes more complex, Huffington Post reports. Because of this, it’s important for teens and their parents to know about teen depression, anxiety disorders, and overall mental health.
According to a 2014 study, about 20 percent of teens will experience depression. Today, the issues that can lead to teen depression go beyond hormones, relationship issues, and family struggles. In this age, cyber bullying is a pervasive issue, substance abuse is increasing, more people are obese, and social media is causing more feelings of inadequacy and isolation.
It’s important for teens to have information about depression and mental health. Below are five things to know:
1. Depression is more than just feeling sad.
Depression is a mental health issue. It involves a chemical disorder within your brain, so it is much more than feeling down or having some bad days. Depression also causes physical ailments so teens with depression also usually experience obesity, back pain, changes in appetite, lethargy, and other issues. This sounds scary, but it can be treated with help. Talk to a doctor if you think you have depression.
2. Depression puts you at higher risk of suicide.
Most people who commit or attempt to commit suicide have depression or another mental health disorder. According to statistics from the CDC, a large number of high schoolers – 17 percent, in fact – have had suicidal thoughts in the last 12 months. Again, if you think you have depression, anxiety, or something else, please talk to a doctor. It could save your life.
3. It’s not you.
Depression affects your thinking, how you view situations, and, ultimately, makes you feel like you’re not yourself. The objective view of a professional can help you reshape your thinking and challenge your depression-induced negative way of viewing things.
4. You should talk about it.
There is a mental health stigma within our country, but we’re chipping away at it little by little. Since it’s not a mainstream topic, it is difficult to talk about, but doing so will help you feel more supported. Talk to your parents, a teacher you trust, and find resources that ccan help you through this.
5. Hope is real.
It’s hard to feel hopeful when you have depression, but it’s crucial to remind yourself that hope is real. This will help you be more optimistic and positive, which will in turn help you battle your depression. Do small things that will remind you things do get better and there is reason for hope like reading inspirational quotes every day or making plans and keeping them.