Depression Basics
What is depression most commonly defined as?
A mental health condition involving persistent low mood, loss of interest or pleasure, and changes in sleep, energy, or concentration lasting at least two weeks.
What is anxiety?
The body’s response to perceived danger or stress, involving worry, fear, or physical symptoms.
What is the main psychoactive chemical in marijuana?
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
Name one healthy coping skill
Deep breathing, exercise, journaling, talking to someone, grounding techniques.
Myth or Fact: People with depression are just being lazy.
Myth
True or False: Depression is the same as feeling sad for a day or two.
False. Depression lasts longer and affects daily functioning.
Name one physical symptom of anxiety.
Racing heart, sweating, stomach pain, shortness of breath, muscle tension.
True or False: Marijuana has no effect on the teenage brain.
False. The teenage brain is still developing and is more sensitive to THC.
Describe your mood this week
anything
Myth or Fact: Anxiety can cause real physical pain.
Fact
Name two common symptoms of depression in teenagers.
Low energy, irritability, changes in sleep or appetite, loss of interest, difficulty concentrating, or feelings of worthlessness.
True or False: Anxiety always means something bad is about to happen.
False. Anxiety can be triggered even when there is no real danger.
What brain function can marijuana negatively affect in teens?
Memory, attention, learning, and motivation.
When coping skills don’t work right away, what should you do
“Try a different coping skill,” “Give it time,” “Lower expectations instead of quitting”
Myth or Fact: Marijuana helps everyone relax and feel better.
Myth.
How can depression affect school performance?
It can cause difficulty concentrating, low motivation, missed assignments, and declining grades.
What part of the brain is responsible for detecting threats and triggering anxiety?
The amygdala.
How can marijuana use worsen anxiety or depression for some people?
It can increase anxiety, panic, mood swings, and reduce natural dopamine over time.
Do coping skills work instantly?
No, they work over time with practice.
Myth or Fact: Teens can build coping skills that reduce anxiety without substances.
Fact
What chemical in the brain is often linked to mood regulation and depression?
Serotonin (also dopamine and norepinephrine).
How does chronic anxiety affect the nervous system over time?
It keeps the body in a constant state of alert, leading to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty relaxing.
What is one risk of using marijuana regularly as a coping strategy?
Increased dependence, avoidance of emotions, and worsening mental health symptoms.
What does deep breathing do to the nervous system?
It calms the body.
Myth or Fact: Using weed to deal with stress is always the best way to let things “cook,” no cap.
Myth. It might feel helpful short-term, but over time it can make anxiety and depression worse — healthier coping skills work better long-term.