Depression
Depression is a common mental illness that can be caused by a variety of factors including abuse, severe losses, family or relationship problems and medical conditions. It can be more severe in children and teens than adults, especially in girls. Symptoms of depression can include sadness, feeling hopeless or worthless, irritability or anger, trouble at school, over or under-eating (abnormal weight loss or gain), aches and pains, a change in sleeping patterns like staying awake all night or sleeping too much, drug and alcohol abuse and thoughts of suicide. Psychotherapy is a proven treatment for depression. It has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and it can be done by health care professionals, relatives or a faith leader. It can also be treated with medication.