Depression and Suicide Awareness
By Natalie Lomax, 8th Grade Health
What is Depression and Suicide?
Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness, and loss of interest. The chemical (neurotransmitter) imbalance leads to depression. Suicide is the act or an instance of taking one's life.
Symptoms and Signs of Depression, Suicide, and self injury
Symptoms/Signs of Depression
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.
- Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism.
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings.
Warning Signs of Suicide
- Isolating from family and friends.
- Sleeping too much, or too little.
- Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online for material or means.
Signs of Self Injury
- Fresh cuts, scratches, burns, or other wounds.
- Wearing long clothing in inappropriate weather.
- Keeping sharp objects on hand.
Resources if you know someone, or if you are feeling any of the symptoms listed here.
- ImAlive, a place you can text since many people have anxiety about phone calls. (http://www.imalive.org)
- The National Suicide Prevention Line, for everyone around the world. ( 1(800) 273-8255 or http://www.suicidepreventionline.org)
- The Trevor Project, a judgment free place for everyone of all sexualities and genders. ( 866-488-7386 or http://www.thetrevorproject.org )
- 7 Cups of Tea, an app available for ios and android, where you can talked to trained volunteer listeners. ( http://www.7cupsoftea.com )
The Promise - Emma Blackery [Official Music Video]
This song by Emma Blackery captures the events of a depressed teen. If you listen to the lyrics it gives full input into what is happening in the music video. Remember, you are amazing and loved and should never take your life over depression. This is a very cheesy saying, but I promise it will get better. I hope you enjoyed! Thank you for reading!