Lesson 3

The teen years bring new pressures, challenges, and responsibilities that can sometimes seem overwhelming.

These stressors can cause anxious feelings, sleeping difficulties, or even mild depression.

Anxiety and Teen Depression

Lesson 3

In this lesson, you’ll learn to:

Identify symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Develop strategies for coping with anxiety and depression.

Identify warning signs of major depression that should prompt individuals to seek professional help.

Lesson Objectives

Lesson 3

Anxiety

Everyone feels anxious from time to time.

Occasional anxiety in life is natural.

Sometimes anxious feelings can have positive results.

Other times, anxiety can get in the way of a person’s performance.

What Is Anxiety?

Lesson 3

Symptoms of Anxiety

Feelings of fear or dread

Perspiration, trembling, restlessness, or muscle tension

Rapid heart rate, lightheadedness, or shortness of breath

What Is Anxiety?

Lesson 3

Perfectionist’s Anxiety

A perfectionist’s anxiety comes from believing that nothing he or she does will be good enough.

This type of pressure can lead to frustration and unhappiness.

To avoid anxiety caused by striving for perfection, have realistic expectations and take a positive view of your accomplishments.

What Is Anxiety?

Lesson 3

Managing Anxiety

Redirect your energy.

Don't turn to alcohol or other

drugs.

Engage in physical activity.

Do relaxation exercises.

Get support from family and

friends.

What Is Anxiety?

Lesson 3

Depression is much stronger than the occasional sad mood.

To manage such feelings, follow these suggestions:

Write your feelings in a private journal.

Draw, dance, or engage in some other creative activity.

Talk about your feelings with your family and friends.

Do something nice for someone else.

Depression

What Is Depression?

Lesson 3

Types of Depression

Reactive Depression Major Depression

It is a response to a stressful event.

It eventually goes away as the person finds a way to manage his or her response to the event.

It is a medical condition requiring professional help and treatment.

It is more severe and lasts much longer.

It may result from a chemical imbalance in the brain or a genetic tendency.

What Is Depression?

Lesson 3

Symptoms of Teen Depression

An irritable or restless mood

Withdrawal from friends and activities

A change in appetite or weight

Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

A sense of hopelessness

What Is Depression?

Lesson 3

Strategies for Coping with Anxiety and Depressive Feelings

Talk with supportive people.

Get more physical activity.

Volunteer.

Seek help from a parent or other trusted adults.

Seek help from a counselor, school psychologist, or other health care professionals.

Getting Help for Anxiety and Depression