The Truth About Teen Depression
Today’s youth is more stressed out than ever. Kids are facing intense pressure to excel in academics, sports, and social relationships—far more than the generations before. Compound that pressure with our current social media culture—which not only creates unrealistic expectations but also an unhealthy dependence on screen time—and many students find themselves standing at an emotional cliff.
Stress triggers depression. It’s one of the major risk factors, along with family history, abuse and neglect, bullying, chronic health issues and substance abuse problems—which are also on the rise.No wonder tweens and teens are facing an unprecedented epidemic of emotional and behavioral struggles. And sadly, only 30 percent of depressed teens are being treated.
It’s time to change all that.
If you or someone you care about is suffering from depression, please seek help. The first step is to understand there is no shame in being depressed. Depression is a chemical imbalance in the body, no different from any other physical ailment, and depression is NOT YOUR FAULT.
Secondly, realize that depression lies to you. Thoughts in your head that you are worthless, or that you’ll never be happy, are simply not true. That’s the chemical imbalance talking, and when you get help to repair it, you will break free from the lies and experience peace again. Please hold on.
And finally, you are not alone. About 1 in 5 youth will experience depression in their teen years. The key is to share your struggles with someone who can help. Dignity Revolution urges you to talk with a trusted adult or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK {8255} to start healing.
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