Depression

Everyone feels low at times, but these low spirits are usually related to a particular loss, such as bereavement, the break up of a relationship, or to a stressful event such as examinations.

Normally young people will work through their feelings about what has happened and come to terms with them over time. For others the cause of their depression may not be obvious or their level of depression may seem out of proportion to the event that appears to have triggered it.

Many adults do not understand or believe that young people can suffer from depression. Friends can avoid a young person who is depressed because they are sad and miserable and no longer fun to be with. Even the most concerned and loving family may not understand that the young person has got a real illness.

Factors leading to depression can be social (e.g. recent loss or bereavement); psychological (e.g. experiencing rejection) or physical (e.g. substance abuse).

It can be of considerable help to people suffering from worry, anxiety and depression to be able to talk over their feelings with a person who will really listen, in total confidence, without making judgments or criticisms.

How would you recognise the symptoms of depression?

How would you support someone who is depressed?

Sometimes talking the situation over with someone can help.

The Cyprus Samaritans’ Helpline is totally confidential.