write an article to be published in a local newspaper expressing your concern st the rising number of cases of students suffering from stress and depression.
Answers
STRESS AND DEPRESSION
AMONG STUDENTS
Stress is a normal response to situational pressures or demands, especially if they are perceived as threatening or dangerous. Stress is the result of brain chemicals, called hormones, surging through the body. These hormones make people sweat, breathe quicker, tense their muscles, and prepare to take action. When this happens, a person's built-in alarm system—their “fight-or-flight” response—becomes activated to protect them. A certain amount of stress is a normal part of daily life. Small doses of stress help people meet deadlines, be prepared for presentations, be productive and arrive on time for important events. However, long-term stress can become harmful. When stress becomes overwhelming and prolonged, the risks for mental health problems and medical problems increase.
1. Every 100 minutes a teen takes their own life.
2. Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for young people ages 15 to 24.
3. About 20 percent of all teens experience depression before they reach adulthood.
4. Between 10 to 15 percent suffer from symptoms at any one time.
5. Only 30 percent of depressed teens are being treated for it.
Some of the experts believe that we have raised our teens to have unrealistic expectations. Along with the messages from modern media sources that suggest that we should always feel good, they say many parents haven’t taught their kids the kind of coping skills they need to survive in chaotic times.
Mood Symptoms
- Depressed mood almost every day over the course of two years
- Loss of interest in sexual activities or desire
- Loss of interest or enjoyment in practically all activities
- Sense of worthlessness or guilt with no reason
- Sadness and unhappiness
- Restlessness
- Emotional outbursts
- Irritability
- Guilt
- Shame