Depressed teens can find help

We all know as teens that we go through our mood swings and our attitude problems.
Some of us also know what it's like to be sad and lonely, when you feel that you are standing apart or isolated and everyone is out to get you. Sometimes we feel as if we are a little chicken in the middle of the room and we're surrounded by hundreds of hungry dogs, waiting to rip us into tiny bits and pieces.
We all know school years can be complicated and demanding. Deep down you are not sure who you are, what you want to be, or whether the choices you make from day to day are the best decisions. Sometimes the many changes and pressures you are facing threaten to overwhelm you. So, it isn't surprising that from time to time you or one of your friends feels "down" or discouraged.
But what happens when your activity and outlook on life stay down for weeks and begin to affect your everyday living? Maybe we have a horrible sickness stuck inside of us -- something waiting to be treated. If you are like this, you may be suffering from depression.
You can get help.
Symptoms of depression
What is depression? It is more than the blues or the blahs -- it is more than the normal everyday ups and downs.
Do you express feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt or worthlessness? Or maybe you can't make decisions, can't concentrate or remember.
Have you lost interest in ordinary activities like sports, band or talking on the phone? Are you having problems with family or school? Or maybe you just complain a lot about loss of energy and drive, like you're slowed down.
Do you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting up in the morning? Or maybe your appetite has changed; you may lose or gain weight.
Are you restless or irritable all the time? Do you cut class, drop activities or hobbies? Or are you drinking heavily or taking drugs? Do you talk about death or suicide? Or maybe you have already tried suicide.
Most teens who are depressed get very fatigued, and they want to be alone all the time.
These are all signs that you may be suffering from a terrible sickness. If any of these symptoms are related to what you are feeling, you need to get help.
Think about it, I mean really think.
Make a smart decision
You must ask yourself if you are simply stressed out from all the happenings in your life or if you are depressed.
Most teens don't know they are depressed; they just think that they are going through their tough teen stages. And the bad thing about those teens is that by the time someone realizes they need help, it is often too late. Sometimes teens know they are depressed, but they are either afraid to ask for help or they are not getting the right help.
Depression can affect anyone, so don't think it can't happen to you. It is a serious health disorder. Getting help is the only way out.
Talk with someone you trust, a family member, a friend or a teacher at school. Talking through feelings can help in many ways. You must recognize the need for professional help. It can be treated -- there are varieties of anti-depressants, medications and psychotherapies.
But please, if you or someone you know is being tortured by depression, get help. It's the only way out. The gift of words is unbelievable to someone suffering through depression. It really works.
So find out if you are depressed, and get the care you need. Don't let it get in the way of a wonderful life.
XAmber Arditi is in the eighth grade at Western Reserve Middle School.