Mind4Youth

By: Crystal Cai

Introduction

Like all human beings, you and your friends will experience a wide range of emotions together: everything from hysterical late night calls to open grief in times of hardship. But have you ever noticed your friend acting increasingly off? Maybe even to the point of worry? Whether it’s beginning to isolate themselves or being more tired than usual, this
article is your go-to guide if you suspect a friend may be falling into depression (with practical advice on what to do.)

What are the signs?

The hardest thing about pinpointing depression is the fact that most adults just think it’s ‘teenage angst,’ when in reality it’s much more serious. Depression is most easily defined as persistent feelings of sadness that affect how people feel, think, and act. As an outside viewer, some behavioral changes to note are:

• Tiredness and loss of energy
• Changes in appetite
• Social isolation
• Angry outbursts/Agitation
• Poor school performance and increased absences

…Just to name a few. (Mayo Clinic)

It’s important to remember that depression doesn’t look the same for everyone. Depression can arise from a multitude of different reasons (many genetic or trauma related), but it can also stem from family or school life troubles. (National Library of Medicine) Just because your friend doesn’t talk about every hardship in their life doesn’t mean you can’t look out for them.

What next?

Say you are now sufficiently convinced your friend might have depression. What can you do? As someone who has personally almost lost friends to depression, the most important thing I can stress is to continue being there for your friend. Message and call! Plan hangouts to the best of your ability! (Try making these hangouts active, since that releases endorphins– chemicals that make your brain feel better)

If you think the depression is becoming serious or that self-harm may have happened, do your best to have a thoughtful conversation. Be respectful of their space, but also try to have them talk about what they’re feeling with you. If you can, maybe even suggest talking to a trusted adult so they can get further help with therapy or medication. (National Institute of Mental Health)

Finally, if the situation is getting to a point where suicide is a genuine concern, please reach out to a health care provider such as the school nurse. Share your worries with someone you trust, like your parents, teacher, or another close friend. Your friend’s safety should remain your highest priority as they navigate their mental health.

For emergencies:

• In the US, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline (available 24/7)
• Contact a crisis service for teenagers in the US, TXT 4 HELP. Text the word “safe” and current location to 4HELP (44357) for immediate help
• Call your local emergency number (911 in the USA) if there’s immediate danger

Conclusion

Depression is a difficult topic and it might feel awkward even bringing it up, but I promise it’s important. Saving lives takes one step at a time. Even though the journey may be challenging for everyone involved, make sure your friend knows you have them every step of the way as they work on their mental health.