Wednesday, June 06, 2007

Cope Care Deal


Seeing the Signs
Understanding the warning signs for mental health problems may help you recognize if someone you care about is suffering from depression or another mental health illness. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, an agency that focuses on the health of Americans, warning signs of depression include:
  • Feeling sad or down a lot of the time (Rather than feeling sad, some teens may have angry outbursts, feel cranky, or cry more.)
  • Not being able to fall asleep, stay asleep, or feel rested
  • Sleeping too much, taking naps, or going to bed early to avoid dealing with life
  • Losing weight, gaining weight, or losing interest in food
  • Experiencing physical symptoms such as feeling tired, headaches, or upset stomach
  • Having problems at school such as dropping grades or getting into trouble
  • Losing interest in favorite activities like sports, music, or art, or feeling bored all the time
  • Not hanging out with friends and turning down invitations to do things
  • Feeling hopeless about the future
  • Having thoughts about death or suicide

Other mental health illnesses that are more common in teens include anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Visit the Mind Zone to learn about warning signs and other facts.

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