Depression is not her fault, any more than dyslexia, or acne. If any of these symptoms have persisted for more than three weeks, Amanda's parents should contact a physician, recommends the Canadian Psychiatric Association. A medical and psychiatric evaluation will determine if she is suffering from depression, or some other ailment with depressive symptoms such as anemia, or mononucleosis. There are three main types of depression. Depression is the leading cause of teen suicide.
Young people lack the maturity to comprehend the finality of suicide.
When depressed, they simply want their pain to end. If you suspect your child is at all depressed, get the weapons out of your house, and keep all medication in a locked cabinet,' advises Dr. MacDonald. With diagnosis, come treatment possibilities and hope . Anti-depressants will restore Amanda's brain chemistry and therapy will improve her outlook and response to stressful situations. An understanding of her condition will also aid the rest of the family's responses to her behaviour.