1. Childhood Depression Awareness Show your support by wearing GREEN on Thursday.

2. What is Depression? Depression is an illness with many causes and many forms. It is a disorder of someone’s moods or emotions; it is not an attitude that someone can “control” or “snap out of,” but it is treatable with counseling and/or medication.

3. Depression is a condition that affects approximately 5% of children and teens at any given time. Depression can cause problems such as difficulties in school, difficulties with relationships, and general decreased enjoyment of life. At its worst, depression can lead to suicide. Take the time to educate yourself on this important and difficult subject for your health and happiness.

4. Symptoms of Teen Depression Overly emotional reactions to even the smallest thing. Crying or irritability, anger, hostility, violence Lack of concern with personal appearance and/or hygiene Behavioral problems in school: Tardiness, truancy issues School performance: Grades drop Reckless behaviors: Alcohol and/or drug use Thoughts of suicide Runaway behavior Problems with illegal behavior such as shoplifting etc. Loss of interest / Conflicts with family or closest friends Extreme emotional sensitivity: Fears of failure or rejection by others Gadget addiction such as internet addiction Aggression / Violence I Hate You attitude

5. Help is Available If you or someone you know suffers from DEPRESSION, there is help. Talk to a parent, a teacher, Ms. O’Neill Or call the NL Helpline at 1-800-668-6868