You get irritated often. Or you wake up really early most mornings and can't get back to sleep. You feel restless and tired most of the time. Depression can affect people of any age, race ethnic, or economic group. Sometimes, several types may have to be tried before you and your doctor find the one that works best.
Treatment can help most depressed people start to feel better in just a few weeks.
Listen and encourage your friend to ask a parent or responsible adult about treatment. Most people who are depressed do not commit suicide. But depression increases the risk for suicide or suicide attempts. It is NOT true that people who talk about suicide do not attempt it. Sometimes people get seriously depressed after something like a divorce in the family, major financial problems, someone you love dying, a messed up home life, or breaking up with a boyfriend or girlfriend.