Depression

Last Updated on Monday, 15 March 2010 14:25

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As a young person you are likely to have a whole range of emotional experiences, which can feel really intense.  

It is normal to feel down, bummed out or stink every now and then. Sometimes when people feel down they say they are depressed. Depression is actually an illness that has some very specific symptoms. It is important to be able to recognise the difference between normal low feelings, that everyone experiences, and depression. The information on this page gives you the facts about depression and what you can do if you think you or a mate might be depressed.

If you would like to find out more information on depression click here to visit the LowDown website.

The Lowdown site is a great online resource for finding out more about depression. There is heaps of information, contact details for help services, personal narratives and celebrity stories. There is also an online message board where you can communicate with other young people and the Lowdown team. Check it out!

Causes of Depression:

Depression can be caused by a number of things. Life experiences, genetics, biology and personality type can all play a part in experiencing depression.

Personal Loss or a Change in Life:

Arising from death
Break up of a relationship
Friend moving away
Through shifting house
Through family changes (parents separate, brother or sister moving out)
School failure
Illness

Genetics:

A family history of depression can mean you are more likely to experience depression

Biology:

Research had found that people with depression have low serotonin levels. Seroatonin is a brain chemical or neurotransmitter that supports mood, emotion and sleep patterns.

Personality type:

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