Hear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. You are my GOD; save your servant who trusts in you. - Psalms 86:1-2
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Teenage Depression
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Teenage depression isn't just about bad moods and occassional melancholy. Depression is a serious problem that impacts every aspects of a teenager's life. Left untreated, teen depression can lead to problems at home and in school, drug abuse, self-loathing - even irreversible tregedy such as homicidal violence and suicide. (of which I have seen a few myself) Fortunately, teenage depression can be treated, and as a concerned parent, teacher or friend, there are many things you can do to help.
Understanding Teenage Depression
Yes, teen years are tough, but most teens balance the requisite angst with good friendships, success in school or outside activities, and the development of a strong sense of self. Occassional bad moods or acting out is expected, but depression is something different. Depression can destro the very essence of a teenager's personality, causing as overwhelming sense of sadness, despair, or anger.
Whether the incidence of teen depression is actually increasing, or we're just becoming more aware of it, the fact is that depression is highly treatable, however, only a small number of youths seek and receive help.
Unlike adults, who have the ability to seek assistance on thier own, teenagers usually must rely on parents, teachers, or ther caregivers to recognise their suffering and get them the treatment they need. So if you have an adolescent in your life, it's important to learn what teen depression looks like ad what to do if you spot the warning signals.
Signs and Symptoms of Teen Depression
Teenagers face a host of pressure, from the changes of puberty to questions about who they are and where they fit in. The natural tansition from child to adult can also bring parental conflict as teens start to assert their independence. With all this drama, it isn't always easy to differentiate between depression and normal teenage moodiness. Making things even more complicated, teens with depression do not necessarily appear sad, nor do they always withdraw from others. For some depressed teens, symptoms of irritability, aggression and rage are more prominent.
Some Helplines Available (Singapore)
SOS (Samaritans of Singapore) - Anybody in crisis and the suicidal (free)
1800 221 4444 (24 hours)
Student Advisory Centre (for runaway youths and parents)
6778 0700
TOUCHLINE (TOUCH Youth Services)
for youths between 12 and 19 yrs of age who are struggling, frustrated or depressed and badly in need of a listening ear.
1800 377 2252 (10am to 10pm DAILY)
Teenage Crisis Centre (Teen Challenge)
Drugs and substance abuse, gangsterism, runaways, school drop-outs, delinquents, crisis counselling
6346 9332
9am - 5pm (Mon to Fri)
9am - 1pm (Sat)
Tinkle Friend (Singapore Children's Society)
Primary school students, especially those who are left alone at home, who need someone to talk to or discuss problem with
1800 274 4788
9am to 11am; 2.30m to 4.30
Mon to Fri
National Council of Social Services - NCSS (here you can find a list of more helplines)
On the lighter side for those of you who know me, call me :)
Understanding Teenage Depression
Yes, teen years are tough, but most teens balance the requisite angst with good friendships, success in school or outside activities, and the development of a strong sense of self. Occassional bad moods or acting out is expected, but depression is something different. Depression can destro the very essence of a teenager's personality, causing as overwhelming sense of sadness, despair, or anger.
Whether the incidence of teen depression is actually increasing, or we're just becoming more aware of it, the fact is that depression is highly treatable, however, only a small number of youths seek and receive help.
Unlike adults, who have the ability to seek assistance on thier own, teenagers usually must rely on parents, teachers, or ther caregivers to recognise their suffering and get them the treatment they need. So if you have an adolescent in your life, it's important to learn what teen depression looks like ad what to do if you spot the warning signals.
Signs and Symptoms of Teen Depression
Teenagers face a host of pressure, from the changes of puberty to questions about who they are and where they fit in. The natural tansition from child to adult can also bring parental conflict as teens start to assert their independence. With all this drama, it isn't always easy to differentiate between depression and normal teenage moodiness. Making things even more complicated, teens with depression do not necessarily appear sad, nor do they always withdraw from others. For some depressed teens, symptoms of irritability, aggression and rage are more prominent.
Some Helplines Available (Singapore)
SOS (Samaritans of Singapore) - Anybody in crisis and the suicidal (free)
1800 221 4444 (24 hours)
Student Advisory Centre (for runaway youths and parents)
6778 0700
TOUCHLINE (TOUCH Youth Services)
for youths between 12 and 19 yrs of age who are struggling, frustrated or depressed and badly in need of a listening ear.
1800 377 2252 (10am to 10pm DAILY)
Teenage Crisis Centre (Teen Challenge)
Drugs and substance abuse, gangsterism, runaways, school drop-outs, delinquents, crisis counselling
6346 9332
9am - 5pm (Mon to Fri)
9am - 1pm (Sat)
Tinkle Friend (Singapore Children's Society)
Primary school students, especially those who are left alone at home, who need someone to talk to or discuss problem with
1800 274 4788
9am to 11am; 2.30m to 4.30
Mon to Fri
National Council of Social Services - NCSS (here you can find a list of more helplines)
On the lighter side for those of you who know me, call me :)
Voices from Within at 09:45