2. Depression

3. What is the difference between major/clinical depression and just feeling down?
A person with depression experiences severe and long lasting episodes of feeling hopeless and helpless – can’t ever see it getting better
Someone who just “feels depressed” knows they will get through it with time

4. Situational Depression
Results from normal sadness and disappointment one might experience in life
For example, death of a loved one, breakup with a boyfriend, low grades, divorce of a parent

5. Factors that lead to depression
A family history (genes)
Imbalance in brain chemicals (serotonin)
Major life changes (off to college)
Major illness
Use of alcohol/drugs
Side effect of certain medications

6. Symptoms of Depression
Sleep patterns – too much or too little
Lack of interest in friends & usual activities
Poorly in school
Anger & irritability
Indecision or lack of concentration
Change in weight – up or down
Drug and/or alcohol abuse

7. Treatment
Therapy – to deal with the negative thoughts and thinking patterns
Medication – to help restore balance to brain chemicals/neurotransmitters
Prozac, Zoloft, etc.

8. Women vs. Men?
Women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression
Why? - biological or just a greater willingness to express feelings/seek help

9. Teen Depression
1 in 5 report episodes of depression at some point during high school
5, year-olds commit suicide each year
3rd leading cause of death among teens