Do you ever feel... like you're depressed?

What is Depression?
We all have to deal with different kinds of feelings and emotions. Its normal to feel stressed, anxious or lonely sometimes, or feel that no one understands us. For most young people, these feelings come and go. But for some, feeling depressed or down can go on for a much longer time and becomes so severe that they find it hard to carry on with their normal everyday lives.

How Do I Recognise Depression?
Maybe you recognise some of these in yourself or in a friend:-

	Feeling lazy or bored and tired a lot
	Feeling life is not worth living
	Crying a lot
	Becoming withdrawn and losing touch with friends
	Worrying about things
	Being moody, irritable or snappy
	Eating a lot more or a lot less than usual
	Not looking after yourself
	Sleeping badly or sleeping too much
	Being very self critical
	Feeling like harming yourself

How Can I help My Friends If They Feel Down?

	Listen and try to be sympathetic
	Don't tell them or expect them to just snap out of it
	Don't tease or criticise them
	Be patient and allow them to talk in their own time
	Try and get them to talk about how they feel
	Try to help them look for professional help

How Can You Get Help?
Just talking to a friend or family member may help you feel more able to cope. Alternatively they could help you seek professional advice.

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