Teen depression is real. In fact, it is categorized as a major depressive disorder and is a medical illness that can interfere with your ability to handle your daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or managing your school work.

Yes, we all go through teenage years and they can be tough on everyone. There are changes taking place in your body and brain that can affect how you learn, think, and behave. And, if you are facing additional tough or stressful situations, it is normal to have emotional ups and downs.

But, if those normal ups and downs become something more, then you may be suffering from teen depression. Depression is more than just sadness. Teens cannot just “snap out of” depression or just try harder to be happy. It is a real disorder and most teens (and adults) with depression need treatment to get better.

You may be wondering if you are suffering from teen depression. Ask yourself…

• Do you constantly feel sad, anxious, or even “empty,” like you feel nothing?
• Do you feel irritable much of the time?
• Do you find yourself spending more time alone and withdrawing from friends and family?
• Do you always feel tired? Like you have less energy than normal or no energy at all?
• Do you feel restless or have trouble sitting still?
• Do you feel hopeless or like everything is going wrong?
• Do you feel like you’re worthless or helpless? Do you feel guilty about things?
• Are your grades dropping?
• Have you lost interest or pleasure in activities and hobbies that you used to enjoy?
• Have your eating or sleeping habits changed (eating or sleeping more than usual or less than usual)?
• Do you feel like you have trouble concentrating, remembering information, or making decisions?
• Do you have aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or stomach problems without a clear cause?
• Do you ever think about dying or suicide? Have you ever tried to harm yourself?

If you answered “yes” to any, or some, of the questions above, then you may be suffering from depression. Please remember… you are not alone!