AHS will be conducting a presentation, informing the sophomore class about depression awareness on November 10. The school will be training the class as part of the Signs of Suicide Prevention Program.

“This program teaches students that they need to speak up when they are experiencing feelings of depression or if they are worried about a friend,” school psychologist Dr. Anne Brosnan said.

Depression is definitely a problem nowadays, especially in high school. There can be a lot of stress packed into a student’s everyday life in and out of school. Studying, sports, and work could cause major stress and lead to depression.

“Just one of these things is stressful, but in combination it can be overwhelming,” Brosnan said. “In many ways, the pressures kids face in high school are worse than what adults have to face.”

This is why it is important to be educated about depression and suicide. Fairfax County is hoping that this program and the video will help educate students about depression and suicide and therefore, help prevent either from happening.

If you feel as though you or a friend are experiencing signs of depression, don’t worry, you are not alone.  

“There are many kids who come to me, our social workers Ms. Hall or Mrs. Ferrari, Dr. Wildgoose or their counselors because they are feeling stressed,” Brosnan said. “We see kids from every grade. Boys and girls come to talk to us in equal numbers, and we’re glad they do.”

Talking to a counselor or a friend could definitely help prevent depression from getting worse,  as well as expressing your feelings to a trusted person in your life. Dr. Brosnan has some useful tips that will help you lead a healthy lifestyle.

“Get some sleep! Take advantage of the later start time by getting to bed a little earlier and having good bedtime routines. Eating well is important too,” Brosnan said. “Take time to be with friends and family and be with people who have positive outlooks. There is no reason to hang around people who bring you down. Be grateful for all the good things in life.”

Although the program is mainly focusing on the sophomore class, it is important that the whole school is aware of depression and suicide.  Depression can affect anyone. That’s why students should be prepared to support a friend and educate themselves about suicide and depression.

AHS is hoping that the SOS program will help the school and the students in it. It’s a step towards making the school a peaceful, safe community.

“I personally know SOS is effective at saving lives,” Brosnan said. “Just the other day one of our students spoke out because she was worried about a friend, and that literally saved her friend’s life. That girl is a true hero.”