Depression sets in when the chemicals in the brain become unbalanced and the person continues to feel sad and for a long time. Depression is not the same as feeling depressed. Depression leads to many problems in everyday life and affects about 4-6% of teens. The signs and symptoms for at least 2 weeks.
- Sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
- Change in weight
- Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
- Energy loss
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
There are effective treatments for depression, including antidepressants and talk therapy. Most people do best by using both.