Teenage Depression

Depression is an illness, How do you feel?

Depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain....10% to 20% of teenagers suffer from it, depression is curable.

Depression can be caused by:

Moving country, house or starting a new school
Death of a family member or friend
Relationship problems
Your social life
Feelings of uncertainty around your sexuality
Money issues
Pressure from school/exam stress
Bullying
Parents divorcing
Self Appearence/esteem
A serious illness
Peer Pressure

Well known people who suffer/suffered from Depression -
Jean-Claude Van Damme - Robert Downey Jr - John Cleese - Winston Churchill - Carrie Fisher

What are the signs of Depression? Just some....

Lack of concentration
Boredom
Mood swings
Quiet and introvert
Not taking care of appearence
Loss or increase in appetite
Irregular sleep patterns
Lack of sexual interest
Possibly aggressive
Always tearful and emotional
Low Self-esteem
Panic attacks

Little ways to help yourself....

Keep your mind busy... Do exercise, joing a gym or go for a swim, it will cheer you up.
A herbal tea or a hot mily drink before you go to sleep will help you relax.
Make sure you have a well balanced diet, try eating turkey, bananas and nuts as these contain tryptophan that can lift your mood
Consult your doctor on therapies and medication

Do something about it........

www.youngminds.org.uk Tel: 0207 3368445
www.childline.org.uk Tel: 0800 111
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk Tel:0845 4647
www.samaritans.org.uk Tel: 08457 909090