Depression in Teens - Sleep Disturbances

How do parents know if it is depression or simply being sixteen years old? Moody teens often go up and down the emotional roller coaster many times a day. What makes depression of teens different?

The usual signs of depression may include insomnia, oversleeping, waking early, a low energy level, social withdrawal, little or no interest in former hobbies, feelings of inadequacy, grades that are slipping, a pessimistic outlook, crying a lot, feelings of isolation, and a general down in the dump attitude about life.

You may question how to know whether your teens having trouble staying asleep at night or even oversleeping could both predict depression. Sleep deprivation can cause or enlarge a number of problems. If your teen is having sleep problems it may good to have a medical evaluation to rule out a medical condition. Rather than use sleep medications, I would recommend asking your doctor about other alternatives, such as yoga, relaxation or meditation.

Since brain development accelerates in adolescence, it makes sense to assist them in finding lifelong activities that will be useful in controlling depression. Because depression so clearly impacts our immune and healing systems, affects our relationships and friendships, it is important to learn coping strategies early in life.

Many teens feel a sense of alienation and isolation from the family or friends. A study done at Johns Hopkins University Medical School which followed 1300 medical students for many years. Those who expressed an alienation from family developed cancer and other diseases, including depression and suicide than the other students.

If your teen shows symptoms of depression, please get medical assistance now. Emotional problems seldom get better without some interruptions and re-framing of the negative thought processes.

Ending Panic - Stop Panic Attacks

Have you ever suffered from a panic attack? Those who have never forget the experience. It's an experience no one wants to repeat, if one can help it. Are you looking for tips on how to stop panic attacks from occurring again? Here are some ways in which you can turn the anxiety into sweet calmness.

1. Causes and Triggers

The first thing you should do when dealing with panic attacks is to find out what causes or triggers them. If you realize, for example, that a scolding from your professor or your superior tends to launch you into a full-blown panic attack, you can then prepare yourself better for that situation in the future.

2. Reasoning with the Unreasonable

Sometimes our fears are baseless. Learn how to reason with your irrational fears. If you're afraid of elevators, for example, tell yourself over and over that elevators are made in such a way that makes it impossible for them to crash down suddenly. Condition yourself positively.

3. Reading Signals

Panic attacks usually happen when you're tired or stressed out. Learn to read the signs your body is showing you. If you've been feeling exhausted lately, take a day off to rest. If you've been hyperactive, spend the excess energy in the gym or go to the spa to relax.

4. Buddy System

When you're bogged down with pressure and your emotions are running high, call for help. Talk to your best friend about it. Call your mother on the phone. Just don't try to get over it all by yourself. No man is an island and we all need each other.

5. Decide to be Happy

Happiness and positivity is a decision. Decide to have a positive outlook on life. Do things that make you happy. Surround yourself with positivity.

6. Breathe

When things don't go your way, take a deep breath and let go. Simple.

Gift Ideas for Christmas 2009

If you're like me who isn't still sure as to what gift to give for your loved ones, then you better start looking for ideas now! It's like 24 days from now and it's Christmastime!

Last year I got a wonderful necklace with a cute little heart pendant. I simply love it! My dad asked me what he'd give to mom. I told him a simple kiss would suffice. He laughed so hard I remember wanting to slap him. But then I remembered the very essence of Christmas, haha.

If you're still unsure as to what to give to your mom, dad, uncle, aunt, grannies or other relatives, then you'd probably find this article helpful.