What is Depression?
Is depression a type of mental illness?
Yes, depression is one of many different types of mental illnesses.
Anyone can become depressed. True or False?
True. Although certain people are more prone to becoming depressed, it can happen to anyone.
Is anxiety a symptom of depression?
Yes, anxiety is one of many symptoms of depression.
This type of therapy helps challenge negative thoughts and build healthier patterns.
What is CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy)
Are teen males or females more likely to develop depression?
Teen females develop depression twice as often as males.
Name one physical effect depression can have on your body.
What is: body aches, weight gain, fatigue, and susceptibility to other illness/disease.
Is there more or less brain activity in the brain of a depressed person compared to a non-depressed brain?
There is less activity in the brain of a depressed person.
What are 3 signs that a person is suffering from depression?
Acceptable answers: The person seems to be sad, hopeless, easily irritated, angry, hostile, tearful, withdrawn, careless, anxious, stressed, self-loathing, reckless, fatigued, violent, helpless, self-harming, suicidal, or addicted to a new substance (mainly drugs or alcohol)
This daily habit, even in small amounts, can help improve mood, energy, and overall mental health.
Acceptable answers: exercise or movement, improving sleep habits, practicing good hygiene, eating regular meals, taking medication as prescribed, drinking enough water, going outside for fresh air, or building a consistent routine.
This organ in the body is most affected by depression, showing changes in structure and activity.
What is the brain
This term describes losing interest in activities that used to feel enjoyable.
What is anhedonia
This hormone, released during stress, can contribute to depression when chronically elevated.
What is cortisol
Depression can cause this type of thinking pattern where people blame themselves for things outside their control.
What is guilt or self‑blame
This coping skill helps people stay present and reduce rumination.
Acceptable answers: grounding, mindfulness, or any variation that reflects staying in the present moment, such as deep breathing, 5‑4‑3‑2‑1 grounding, sensory awareness, or present‑moment focus.
This condition affects millions of adults each year, making it one of the most common mental‑health diagnoses.
What is depression
This common physical symptom of depression can look like sleeping too much or too little.
What is a change in sleep patterns
Name three causes of depression.
Acceptable answers: If a person is undergoing a major stressor, has a family history in mental health illnesses, has imbalance in brain chemistry, or is suffering from another illness. Depression could also be brought on by low self-esteem, insecurity, bullying, or death of a close family member or friend.
This distortion/negative thinking pattern happens when someone takes responsibility for things that are not actually under their control.
What is personalization
This skill involves recognizing early warning signs—like isolation or changes in sleep—and letting staff know before symptoms worsen.
What is self‑monitoring or identifying triggers
This common symptom of depression can make people feel physically sick, even when there’s no medical illness.
What are somatic symptoms
There is a correlation between substance abuse and depression. What percentage of people with substance abuse problems also suffer from depression? A) 75% B) 55% C) 15% D) 30%
D) 30%
This factor can worsen depression when people feel disconnected, unsupported, or isolated.
What is lack of social support
Why do depressed individuals often turn to drugs or alcohol? What is the short term effect? What is the long term effect?
When a person is depressed they are extremely unhappy and constantly in a low mood. Drugs and alcohol will give them a short term feeling of happiness, but after the effect has worn off, and in the long term, they will most likely become more depressed.
What are three things you can do to help yourself if you are feeling depressed?
Acceptable answers: - Do not isolate yourself. Stay around family and friends who have the ability to cheer you up. - Keep your body healthy. Eat a regular healthy diet and participate in lots of exercise. - Avoid alcohol and drugs. Using them may give you a temporary mood boost, but will eventually make your depression worse. - Ask for help if you are stressed. Talk to a teacher, guidance counselor, or parent if you are feeling overwhelmed.
This fact highlights resilience: many people with depression still complete daily tasks, work, and care for others, even when symptoms are severe.
What is high‑functioning depression