Depression can be very harmful if left untreated. It can affect how you act, feel and handle daily life and cause many problems. Teens who are depressed are more likely to:

• Engage in risky sexual behaviors, leading to higher rates of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
• Have problems at school, at work and in their relationships with friends and family.
• Develop a substance abuse problem. Many teens turn to alcohol and drugs to try to feel better and become dependent. At the same time, some who abuse alcohol and drugs may become depressed. It’s a hard cycle to break.
• Be at risk for other health issues such as self-injury and eating disorders.