4.6 Recognizing When to Get Help

Notes

Everyone feels sad or anxious at times. It may be time to get help when feelings are intense, last for weeks, or get in the way of school, friends, sleep or daily life.

• Common conditions in teens include anxiety (constant worry or fear) and depression (long-lasting sadness, loss of interest, tiredness, feeling hopeless). They are real health conditions that can be treated with counseling, therapy and sometimes medicine.
• Warning signs: big changes in sleep or appetite, pulling away from friends, dropping grades, loss of interest in activities, use of alcohol or drugs, feeling hopeless.
• Always take talk of suicide or self-harm seriously. If you or someone you know is thinking about it, tell a trusted adult, school counselor or doctor right away. In the U.S. you can call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, any time, or call 911 in an emergency.
• If a friend seems to be struggling, listen, show you care and help them talk to a trusted adult. Do not keep serious worries a secret.
• Asking for help is a sign of strength.