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 little
• Overeating or loss of appetite
• You constantly feel sad or angry
• You feel empty or numb
• You feel helpless or hopeless
• Loss of interest in things once loved
• Trouble concentrating or remembering stuff
• You’re using drugs to change the way you feel
• You’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 therapist
• Exercising
• Exploring medication options
• Spending time outside
• Setting healthy boundaries
• Creating plans and goals
• Speaking to your teachers, friends, or family