The teenage years are generally rough for many people. Because of this, a lot of teens feel irritable or sad from time to time and these feelings on an occasional basis are perfectly normal. When these feelings linger and refuse to go away, or are so intense that they are hard to handle, it is a sign that you may be suffering from depression. The following article contains some tips you can use if you are a teenage depression and feel like you are dealing with depression.
How to Deal With Teenage Depression
One of the first things that you need to do is identify if what you have is really depression or normal feelings. Is what you are feeling occasional? Or is it something that you feel rules your life? If it is the latter, you definitely need to talk to a parent or teacher or someone you trust. This trusted adult can help you get the care that you need and should be able to lead you in the right direction.
On the other hand, if you only get feelings of sadness on an occasional basis, you still need to talk to a trusted adult. Teenage years are not usually easy and being sad or “depressed” is normal from time to time.
Any time you feel extreme sadness or what you think may be depression, you should find an adult that you trust to talk to. While you may feel alone and think that no one understands, remember, adults were once teenagers and have been through many of the same things that you are going through. It is also important to talk to trusted adults because it can help you work through your feelings. When you leave feelings inside and do not let them out, it is easy for them to get out of control. Talking to someone about the feelings you are having is a great way to let things out and begin to feel better.
When you are feeling depressed you may need to see a therapist. While you may feel uncomfortable talking to someone that you barely know, a therapist can be quite helpful in helping you with your feelings. Therapists are trained to help people who are feeling depressed and this option may be quite helpful.
Many teenage depression feel the need to turn to drugs or alcohol when they are feeling sad or just to do what they conceive to be “cool”. If you are truly depressed, this can make the problem much worse. Drugs and alcohol should be avoided at all costs.
What are you eating? Are you getting enough activity? Your body needs certain nutrients, healthy foods, and plenty of activity and when this is lacking, feelings of teenage depression can occur. If your body is not healthy, it is hard for your mind to be healthy.
Depression is something that you should take very seriously. While some feelings of sadness are normal, any overwhelming feelings of sadness or depression should be dealt with.