Myth: It's normal for teenagers to be moody; teens don't suffer from real depression.

FACT: Depression is more than just being moody, and it can affect people at any age, including teenagers.

Myth: Teens who claim to be depressed are weak and just need to pull themselves together. There’s nothing anyone else can do to help.

FACT: Depression is not a weakness, but a serious health disorder.   Both young people and adults who are depressed need professional treatment. A trained therapist or counselor can help them learn more positive ways to think about themselves, change behavior, cope with problems, or handle relationships. A physician can prescribe medications to help relieve the symptoms of depression. For many people, a combination of psychotherapy and medication is beneficial.

Myth: Telling an adult that a friend might be depressed is betraying a trust. If someone wants help, he or she will get it.

FACT: Depression, which saps energy and self-esteem, interferes with a person's ability or wish to get help. It is an act of true friendship to share your concerns with an adult who can help.

Myth: Talking about depression only makes it worse.

FACT: Talking through feelings with a good friend is often a helpful first step. Friendship, concern, and support can provide the encouragement to talk to a parent or other trusted adult about getting evaluated for depression.

Excerpts from Let's Talk About Depression and What to do when a friend is depressed. . ., National Institute of Mental Health