Obviously only a qualified expert can spot depression. But if you think you may be suffering from depression, think back over the last couple of weeks and size yourself up against the following checklist of symptoms.

Do you feel sad all the time?
Do you feel uninterested in things that used to excite you?
Have you noticed changes in your appetite?
Do you sleep a lot? Or find it hard to sleep?
Do you feel anxious and hyper? Or really drained of energy?
Do you feel bad about yourself?
Do you feel confused or have difficulty making decisions?
Do you think about death or suicide?
Do you have lots of aches and pains?
Do you skive school or get much lower marks than you used to?
Have you run away? Or do you daydream about it?
Do you cry or get angry really easily?
Do you abuse alcohol or drugs?
Are you over-sensitive to rejection and failure?

Sometimes it’s tricky to distinguish depression from average teenage angst but if a few of the above symptoms feel all too familiar, it’s possible you may be depression-prone. And identifying the problem is half the battle. Don’t be ashamed, or afraid, to ask for help – remember depression is an illness and needs proper treatment. You can’t tough it out alone so try opening up to a parent or trusted adult such as a school councillor. Alternatively, visit the websites below for essential advice and info. You might not find a quick-fix solution, but you can make life rosier long-term.

Connexions Direct
Advice website that covers a range of issues that concern 13-19 yr olds - including mental health.

Life Bytes
A simple but informative UK Government website covering a variety of teenage issues.

TheSite.org
An honest, straight-talking website devoted to all aspects of life for those aged 16-25. Funded by a charity called YouthNet UK.