October is Depression Awareness Month, and as a school community, it is essential to recognize the signs of depression and understand its impact on our students and families. Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines depression as a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, and other emotional and physical symptoms that interfere with daily life.
Signs of depression may include:
Emotional signs: Persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, irritability, or frequent crying.
Behavioral signs: Withdrawal from friends and family, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, changes in eating or sleeping habits, and difficulty concentrating.
Physical signs: Unexplained aches and pains, fatigue, and changes in weight or appetite.
Social signs: Increased social isolation, loss of motivation in school or extracurricular activities, and difficulty maintaining relationships.
If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s important to take action. Here’s what you can do:
Start a conversation: Talk openly with the person about what they’re experiencing. Listen without judgment and show your support.
Encourage professional help: Suggest reaching out to a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor.
Seek additional resources: Contact trusted adults, like teachers, counselors, or family members, for guidance and support.
For families with children struggling with depression, there are valuable resources available:
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: A nationwide lifeline network operating 24/7 to provide free and confidential crisis services. Visit 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Offers support groups and chapters throughout the United States. Visit NAMI
Additionally, Ridley School District has partnered with Care Solace to offer confidential and complimentary assistance in finding mental health services, including treatment for depression. Care Solace is available 24/7/365 and can connect you with a professional who can help.
Call 888-515-0595 for multilingual support at any time.
Visit caresolace.com/ridley to search for providers or book an appointment with help via video chat, email, or phone.
By coming together as a community, we can provide the understanding, support, and resources needed to help those struggling with depression. Let’s work together to create a caring and compassionate environment for all.