Conclusion
Now that you have completed your WebQuest project and presented your viewpoints and arguments, I hope that your awareness has broadened dealing with the hot issue of teenage depression and how the public perceives it. You learned there are many stigmas attached to someone who is suffering from depression, particularly for teens who are usually labeled "moody". You also discovered how to locate strong research facts, medical information, and organize them into a comprehensive, logical, and visually appealing oral presentation. Finally, you learned there is more than just "write the report" assignments - you can use PowerPoints, videos, skits, posters, and anything else you can think and create! Can you think of anything else?
Take a moment and reflect on.....
-
The similiarities and differences between depression and "the blues" for teens? Any difference for adults?
-
How does the environment, genetics, personality, or social factors contribute to depression in teens? In adults?
Still want to know more about teen depression? Try exploring some of these ideas....
-
Explore online support groups listed through www.Yahoogroups.com (be very careful using real names and meeting anyone by yourself!); know the phone number for emergency hotlines, such as Boys Town National Hotline at 1-800-448-3000, or a local crisis center located in your community; or explore "Dealing With Depression: Antidepressant Skills For Teens," an online publication written for teens that provides more detailed information and coping strategies located here: http://www.carmha.ca/publications/resources/dwd/DWD_PrintVersion.pdf.
-
Read some YA fiction including Chris Crutcher's Ironman (1996); Ellen Dreyer's The Glow Stone (2006); A.M. Jenkins' Damage (2001); or Patrick Jones' Chasing Tail Lights (2007). Here are some examples of nonfiction works to also help you understand depression among teenagers, including Cate Irwin's Monochrome Days: A First-Hand Account of One Teenager's Experience With Depression (2007); Michael Martin's Teen Depression (2005); and Faye Zucker's Beating the Depression: Teens Finding Light at End of the Tunnel (2007).
Continue to take the time and reflect on your own feelings and emotions. What types of things, actions, people, or behaviors bother your? Is there someone you can talk to about your feelings and emotion whom you trust?
Please take some time to read and respond to the following reflection sheet. This helps teachers and school librarians know if their online assignments are helpful, confusing, or boring to you, the student. Thanks!
