By Stephen Blackadar#

2/24/2021#

Have you ever felt lonely, unmotivated, sad, or just sort of like a deflated balloon? That is essentially what depression is like: a state where you are constantly feeling sad, alone, and unmotivated.

What exactly causes depression, and what can be done about it? We spoke with Glasgow Middle School counselor Ms. Otoyo to get a better idea of what depression is. She said that depression could be caused by, “A chemical thing going on in the brain. It may be an event that may occur that causes depression, that causes a lack of motivation. It could be a loss. It could be a variety of things.”

She also mentioned that depression could be sparked by the social aspect of middle school, or because middle school students are trying to figure out who they are.

“The lack of motivation can sometimes carry into self behavior, suicidal thoughts, and just a lack of motivation. Not wanting to move forward,” she said.

One common cause of depression is something called Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. According to the Mayo Clinic, SAD is a form of depression that often occurs during the fall and winter months. It is usually caused by reduced sunlight from the fall and winter months. Oftentimes, it causes sadness, low energy, and negative thoughts.

We took a school-wide survey about depression. Many people who took the survey said that they were depressed because of school, insecurities, being alone, family problems, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Others said that some things that depressed them were “being tired, and not (getting) enough sleep,” “just feeling down and in a sad state where I have no energy and just can’t make myself happy,” and “The sad, dark colors, the slowness of the (winter) season, and the loneliness it brings.”

Regardless of what causes your depression, make sure that you have people to contact if you need them. Your school counselor, teachers, club leaders, parents, other trusted adults, and even sometimes your friends can be some people that you can talk to for assistance.

“There is always at least one person, at least one,” Ms. Otoyo said.

There are also things that you can do yourself to help stop depression. Try starting self-reflection or meditation. Eating better, exercising more, and thinking more positively about a situation can help stop depression as well. 

And remember- there will always be people out there to help you.