| Depression |
Life is often a roller-coaster ride of emotions, with
the teen years being especially susceptible to depressive episodes. Parents,
educators and friends can easily misread depression as normal adolescent turmoil.
Recent studies show that more than one out of five teens report having had
serious thoughts of suicide; more than one out of ten made a serious attempt
resulting in injury or poisoning that required medical attention.
The
early detection of depression combined with intervention training can help
students recognize friends in distress, overcome reluctance to accept what
they are seeing as dangerous, and take appropriate steps toward getting help.
There is no denying that life can be difficult, but in teaching positive coping
skills, we can minimize the negative effects stress can produce, and have
a tremendous impact on our students
If
you notice these distress signals in a friend -
·
Loss of interest in school
and regular activities; chronic fatigue
·
Withdrawal from friends and
family
·
Major changes in sleeping
or eating patterns
·
Feelings of worthlessness,
hopelessness, self-blame, or guilt
·
Angry, irritable mood; anxiety;
excessive crying
·
Feeling that there is no
way out; need for escape
·
Substance abuse
·
Talking about not being around
- nothing matters anymore
·
Giving things away
·
Talking about death or threats
of suicide
It’s
time to ACT:
Acknowledge
that this person has a problem and that the symptoms are serious.
Care –
let them know that you care about them and that you want to help them.
Tell a trusted adult about your concerns. Just telling the right
person can make the difference.
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