Feeling Down
When it's ok and when it's not
All of us feel fed up, blue or sad sometimes. Feeling sad is a normal reaction to experiences that are stressful or upsetting. But for most people, these feelings come and go. Doing some of things suggested earlier should help bring the bounce back into your life.
You may like to try these websites for more information on feeling down and how to cope:
Web: www.depressioninteenagers.com
Web: www.talking2ourselves.com
Information based site designed by and aimed at 12 to 14 year olds.
Web: www.mindbodysoul.gov.uk
All aspects of health aimed at 14 to 16 year olds.
Web: www.ruok.net/links
Information and support site designed by Wakefield CAMHS service users.
Web: www.changeourminds.com
Samaritans based site for older adolescents.
Web: www.getconnected.org.uk
Site supporting young people's confidential helpline with information and games.
Youth Enquiry Service
Depression
Depression is different from feeling a bit sad or down for a day or two - the feelings don't go away and sometimes they get so bad that a person can't get on with their everyday life. A person may be depressed because they are very worried or stressed about something, or the feelings might just come out of the blue. As well as making a person feel sad, depression can make other problems worse: because they feel depressed, people may not feel like doing the things they usually enjoy or they may not feel like doing anything. They may find it difficult to sleep, eat or socialize like they usually do.
If this sounds like you or someone you know it's time to get some help.
Talk to friends, family, your teacher or youth worker. For many people talking about their problems helps.
They
may suggest that you see a health professional for help and support -
it's important that you don't view it as a sign of weakness if you
decide to consult a professional about depression. You could talk to
your school nurse or GP who may put you in touch with CAMHS (child and
adolescent mental health service)
Other Stressbusting Stuff
Things to do when you feel things are getting on top of you (as suggested by students at e2e, Harrogate):
- Talk about how you feel with someone close.
- Catch up with friends - msn or down at the youth club
- Have a deep bath, light some candles, lie back and bliss out.
- Do something creative - draw a picture, take a photo, write a poem.
- Make your own 'chill out' CD of your favourite relaxing tracks and put it on when you need a break.
- Rent some comedy DVDs, get some friends round and have a good laugh.