But there is a big difference between having a bad case of the blues
and real depression.  Like real depression.

Being sad, that's like when you get a little moody, agitated or have the
occasional cry, happens to us all.
But when the feelings last over a period of weeks and months and,
when, no matter how hard you try, you can't seem to shake them off,
the sense of hopelessness    
then things could be serious and you may need help.
It's like when you're crying everyday, when you don't care about your
appearance, or your friends.
and when you don't want to get out of bed.

The good thing is - help is at hand, and depression (if that is the problem)
can be treated.
(Young people are being treated for it much more than you know.)
You don't have to suffer from depression.
Nobody does!
You can get help.
It's amazing, but the struggle you may face now will eventually become a
great source of strength.  Remember we (and that's you) are all needed,
everyone of us.  
The bad WILL pass - it always does.

And if you have been so low that you have thoughts about suicide
don't wait it out in the hope that you mood might improve.
When a person has been feeling down for so long,
it's sometime hard to understand
that suicide isn't the answer.
It's like you're down for so long
that you don't know what "up looks, or feel like.

And so, at the risk of sounding "preachy"
....resist peer pressure
...don't be overly concerned about your popularity
...trust yourself, and be honest with yourself
...develop goals
...be happy in sharing the success of others
...tap into your talents
And at the end of the day you might just move mountains.

So talk.  You must talk.
Talk to anyone you know and as soon as you can.
It could be a friend, coach, relative, family doctor,
teacher, or neighbor.

Call the Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868
anytime day or night.

Call 911

1-800-SUICIDE   -----  1-800-784-2433

www.youthinbc.com

Remember all these calls are confidential, but try not to worry
about that, instead, just get to someone who will hear you.