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New York Association of School Psychologists. & New York State Office of Mental Health . Present. Recognizing Depression in Your Teenager and What to Do About It. MOM AND DAD . . . DO YOU HEAR ME, DO YOU SEE ME?. THE SPEAK INITIATIVE.
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New York Association of School Psychologists & New York State Office of Mental Health Present Recognizing Depression in Your Teenager and What to Do About It
THE SPEAK INITIATIVE • More people die from suicides than homicides in our country • Third leading cause of death for young people (ages 15 –24) • Approximately 150,000 New York teenagers attempt suicide each year, and 70 will die as a result • The national rate of teen suicide has nearly tripled since the 1950’s • Prevention and early intervention saves lives
IS IT JUST THE BLUES OR IS YOUR CHILD DEPRESSED? • Everybody has normal ups and downs • Depression is more than just the blues • Depression impacts us on an emotional, behavioral, and social level
FACT OR FICTION . . . • Teens don’t suffer from “real” depression • Teens who complain of being depressed are just weak • Talking about depression only makes it worse • Telling an adult that a friend may be depressed is betraying a trust
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT DEPRESSION • What are the possible causes of depression? • How common is it? • Is it serious? • Is depression the same for everyone? • Can it be treated? • Why don’t people get help?
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS • Does your child express feelings of . . . • Sadness and emptiness • Hopelessness, pessimism, or guilt • Worthlessness
Do they seem . . . • Unable to make decisions • Unable to concentrate & remember • Lost interest or pleasure in ordinary activities • Have more problems with school and family
Do They Complain of . . . • Loss of energy and drive • Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up • Appetite problems • Headaches, stomach aches, or backaches
Has their behavior changed suddenly so that . . . • They are restless or more irritable • They want to be alone most of the time • They have started cutting classes or dropping activities • They may be drinking or taking drugs
Have they talked about . . . • Death • Suicide • Attempting to hurt themselves
PREVENTION AND EARLY INTERVENTION SAVES LIVES • Recognize the warning signs • Talk to someone who can help