Signs of Depression & Suicide

Depression

If you or someone you know has 5 or more of the following symptoms present at once during a two week period, he or she may be suffering from depression:

• Feeling Sad

• Avoiding People

• Loss of Interest or Enjoyment of Activities

• Change in Appetite or Weight

• Excessive Frustration or Irritability

• Difficulty Sleeping or Oversleeping

• Energy Loss or Fatigue

• Feelings of Worthlessness or Inappropriate Guilt

• Difficulty Thinking and Concentrating

• Recurrent Thoughts of Death or Suicide

Suicide

Approximately 1/3 of clinically depressed people attempt suicide, it is the 3rd leading cause of death among 10 to 24 year olds. The warning signs include:

• Feelings of Helplessness and Hopelessness

• Self-Destructive or Reckless / Risk Taking Behavior

• Preoccupation with Thoughts of Death

• Extreme Withdrawal from Friends, Family, and Usual Activities

• Neglect of Academic Work and / or Personal Appearance

• Harming Ones Self

• Threats to Commit Suicide

• Increase in Anxiety or Anxiety Related Illnesses (head aches, stomach aches)

• Being Unusually Quiet or Unusually Aggressive or Angry

Parents are advised to seek help immediately if they notice any of the warning signs listed above in their child that last for more than a few weeks or if you know of someone who suffers from the above signs. If you are feeling depressed or having thoughts of suicide, get help right away. There is help and you can feel better! Talk to someone you trust about how you feel like a teacher, doctor, friend, family member, counselor, or you can even contact us.