Recognizing and treating depression

Haley Ramm - Photo by Lucia Tran

One of every eight teenagers are affected by depression. Though the term “depression” has been taken lightly over previous years, it is a critical disorder that affects the mind and the body. Generally, depression occurs more in females than males.

Students in high school are faced with countless challenges as they enter the independent life. With these high expectations and pressures brought upon by school standards, teenagers are likely to feel overwhelmed which may affect their performance in everyday activities.

Sometimes signs aren’t visible, and the surrounding people will assume the lack of motivation is pure laziness. The shift in such a character and personality usually goes undetected. Most of the time, the affected does not seek help or believe that they are ‘okay.’

Depression is not always caused by one factor, but it is a box of unhappy events. Other times, it may be genetically inherited. The inability to sleep, dullness, lack of motivation, and headaches are general symptoms of depression and must be carefully observed and treated.

Teenagers with depression may have thoughts of worthlessness, pessimism, or sometimes even suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of deaths for young adults ages 15 to 24. Palo Alto’s Gunn High School has had three suicide incidents within six months in the same area (train station) in 2009.

Young adults challenge themselves with goals so high that their mindset is only focused on the win. Failing a step must be accepted, otherwise hatred upon one’s self may lead to anger and anxiety.

There are various circumstances that students undergo. The pressure to be beautiful, to ace each class, getting into the top colleges, abuse, parents’ divorce, or even death can cause someone to feel that there’s no other option in life. Hiding is not the answer, and escape is definitely not the correct solution. Bundling up each problem will affect you later in life.

Private blogging offers venting opportunities, or have someone you are able to trust and speak with. Talking to at least one person may ease the anxiety.

At every high school, there is at least one student who sits by himself/herself at lunch, and whether you may or may not know them, a “hello” wouldn’t hurt. Ask yourself why they’re alone. Perhaps their desire to be alone may reflect their current state of mind, or maybe students do not bother to care for someone who is silently screaming. Do not disregard your own problems but have the courtesy to help others, no matter the situation.

There is always a light the end of the tunnel, so hopelessness should never result to the death of a life. Every day, people are given 24 priceless hours, and every day lies new opportunities. Adding a smile to someone’s face, reaching out to someone who appears to be helpless, or even just a quick wave may do some good.

Change of thoughts is always beneficial, even when events do not seem to be positive. Be proud of your achievements and smile at yourself when you look in the mirror. Turn every bad into good, and remember there’s always tomorrow.

Support sites: Gives Me Hope and Befrienders.