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Anyone can struggle with mental health no matter age, race, or gender. Depression is common but many might not realize they have depression because it is not widely talked about. High schoolers are among those who might not realize that they’re suffering with depression. Many get stressed, sad, and anxious in school but if these feelings continue for a long time or become very intense then they might have depression. Some symptoms to look out for include:
Sleeping too much or too littleOvereating or loss of appetiteYou constantly feel sad or angryYou feel empty or numbYou feel helpless or hopelessLoss of interest in things once lovedTrouble concentrating or remembering stuffYou’re using drugs to change the way you feelYou’re thinking about death or suicide
To get diagnosed your doctor or therapist will want to know when your symptoms started, how long they’ve lasted, how severe they are, if depression or other mental illnesses run in your family, and if you have history of drug abuse.
webmd.com
Many high school students deal with the struggle of depression everyday. Dealing with peer pressure, bullying, difficult classwork, tests, etc. could worsen students mental health. If you’re struggling there are many things you could do to help which includes:
Reaching out to a school counselor or therapistExercising Exploring medication optionsSpending time outsideSetting healthy boundariesCreating plans and goalsSpeaking to your teachers, friends, or family