In the last half of the 20th century, depression has increased dramatically and is now a common problem. Research has shown that many young people (about 40% in any six month period) suffer periods of sadness or unhappiness, but this may not be depression. It is quite normal for people to feel "Blue" or "Down", but it's when they're feeling down for a number of weeks and there are behaviour and personality changes that it is time to seek out help. When people's moods change their usual activities and habits, it may indicate that they have some kind of depression. Sometimes because we don't understand our feelings or are unable to talk about them we do things to distract ourselves and this may not always be obvious. For example: Become more aggressive (lose their temper a lot quicker than before, or even treating everyone badly). Risk taking (doing things that they normally wouldn't, for example skydiving or disregarding their own personal safety). Use of lots of alcohol and other drugs (trying to forget their problems through drugs and alcohol, but instead forgetting what they did the night before). Not going to school or work (because they don't want to be around people that are having fun or they just can't face their friends). Are doing badly at school or work (concentrating on a task may be hard due to the fact they are confused). So what are the signs of depression then? Sadness or irritability Difficulty concentrating Lack of energy, enthusiasm or motivation Restlessness or agitation Change in eating or sleeping patterns Feeling of guilt or worthlessness Withdrawal from friends, family and previously enjoyed activities Putting your self down and thinking your no good Suicidal thoughts or actions (thinking about hurting yourself or acting on it) Talking about feeling depressed can be difficult, but you do get used to it. It is always hard to talk about something new or anything you don't understand. When you start to talk to someone who understands, talking about your feelings gets easier. There are also a number of things that families and friends can do to help. Offer help and listen. Encourage your friend to talk about their feelings. Acceptance and belonging are very important, so it is important to encourage them to: Talk to someone they trust Ask for help (this could be from a parent, school counsellor or your local doctor) Spend time with friends Participate in sports and hobbies Ring a 24 hour telephone service Prevention of depression is also possible and there are a range of skills and activities that everyone can do that will help keep a positive state of mental health. Some of these things are: Do things that will improve self esteem (participating in community activities). Encourage positive thinking by hanging around people that have a positive outlook on life and themselves. Developing and maintaining your social skills - by getting out and getting involved you are working on such skills as problem solving, communication and confidence - skills which will help make and keep positive friendships. Good relationship with at least one parent or another adult who is important to you. Good relationships with friends and peers. Set goals and go for them. Want to know more? Check out these links: Beyond Blue BluesNews DepressionNet MoodGym

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Last Updated: 11/1/02

Material contained in this publication is of a general nature only and is not nor is it intended to be opinion or advice on any specific medical problem. If you need to talk to someone urgently, please contact the following crisis counselling services. Kids Help Line (24 hour) 1800 55 1800, Life Line (24 hour) 13 1114, Crisis Care 13 1611 (4pm-8am week days - 24 hours from 4pm Fridays to 8am Mondays) SA only. Copyright© CYWHS, Women's and Children's Hospital 2007. Disclaimer. All enquiries about this web site should be directed to info@headroom.net.au About the Headroom Project. Your Online Privacy Web Services by Megalomedia