Depression can affect people of any age, ethnic, or economic group. Having depression does not mean that a person is weak or a failure or that they aren't really trying. It means they need treatment. Depression affects people of all ages. That means among 25 friends, one could be clinically depressed.
Depression can be very serious.
It has been linked to poor school performance, truancy, alcohol and drug abuse, running away, and feelings of worthlessness, and hopelessness. In the past 25 years, the rate of suicide among teenagers has increased dramatically. Suicide is often linked to depression. Teenagers often fail to recognize the symptoms of depression in themselves or in other people. There are people who can help you get treatment.