Depression can be clearly defined as a medical illness that can interfere in one's ability to participate in normal daily activities. Depression is like a thief, it steals the joy in doing the things once loved such as games, singing or hobbies that cheers you up.
This has no specific age bracket it attacks, it can happen to anyone at any age but often, symptoms begin in teens or early 20's or even 30's. It can occur along with other mental disorder such as substance abuse, drug abuse and other health conditions.
Being a teenager can be extremely tough, you have your whole life to figure out, social life, school, family and most especially peer pressure to battle with, most times, this can be the most confusing stage, a stage where teenagers make their first mistakes while trying to understand why exactly things didn't work out as planned.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION IN TEENAGERS.
- Feeling constantly sad , anxious or even empty.
- Feeling hopeless or like everything is going wrong.
- Self pity and feeling guilty most times.
- Withdrawal from family and friends.
- Loosing interest or pleasure in activities he or she used to enjoy.
- feeling restless and having trouble sitting still.
ADVICE GIVEN TO TEENAGERS CAUGHT IN THE WEB OF DEPRESSION.
- Try being supportive, patient and encouraging even if you do not fully understand what is going on with you.
- Take necessary social media breaks regularly.
- Try keeping a regular sleep schedule.
- Spend time with family and friends.
- Be reminded that getting help is necessary and important. Therefore, try speaking with someone you trust so much.
-With time, healing will come so be open to it!
Depression medically is usually treated by psychotherapy, medications and/or both. Teenagers going though depression should constantly be checked up on as this can lead to suicide. Be there for people and be a shoulder to cry on when the need arises.
Also words of encouragement go a long way and brings about positivity so let your words be seasoned with kindness and love all the time.
Article by Sandra Ibeakamma (ATS Contributor)
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