Unlike many others though, I was given a second chance at life. I returned home to supportive friends and family, a daily dose of Paxil, and therapy once a week. I was optimistic, but I knew I had a long road to recovery. My decision to go public with my story has proved to be rewarding because of the amount of feedback that I am getting. It is so important to me that people be aware of depression.
Some people think that depression and suicide are topics too sensitive to discuss.
I was depressed because I didn't know the symptoms. I didn't think depression could happen to me. Now I know that depression can happen to anyone. I have learned that teens' hormonal changes and the pressure of new responsibilities make them more vulnerable to depression. It frightens me when I think that any of the Tech students I sit beside in class could be feeling the way I did two years ago.