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Depression

Warning Signs in Adults

• Dissatisfaction with life

• Bored, apparent feelings of helplessness or worthlessness

• Suicidal thoughts or feelings

• Depression often goes untreated because symptoms suggest other concerns

 

Warning Signs in Children

• Sadness, irritability, hopelessness, and worrying

• Feeling angry or anxious

• Loss of energy

• May mimick symptoms of ADHD

• Change in grades

• Refusal to go to school

• Trouble sleeping

 

Warning Signs in Teens

• Insomnia or oversleeping

• Changes in appetite

• Use of alcohol or drugs

• Poor performance in school

• Neglects personal appearance

• Self-harm

• Suicidal thoughts

The life of a teenager has natural ups and downs, but when the apparent "downs" persist over a long period of time, the teen should be encouraged to seek appropriate help.

 

Physical Abuse 

Any physical harm inflicted upon a child

Signs that a Child or Teen is Being Physically Abused

• Unexplained bruises, welts, burns, or cuts

• Always waiting for something bad to happen

• Flinches at sudden movements

• Afraid to go home

• Wears clothes that could be hiding injuries

• These are all signs teachers can notice. Provide a calm and caring environment for the student and as mandated reporters we have to report any suspected abuse.

 

Sexual Abuse 

Any conduct towards a child or teen that is sexual in nature. This includes photographing and/or videotaping of children that is sexually explicit.

Signs a Child or Teen is Being Sexually Abused

• Acting in a sexual way with toys or objects

• Awareness of "adult" issues concerning sexual activity

• Withdrawn or clingy

• Trust issues with people of the same gender of their offender

• Mood swings or poor emotional regulation

• Personality changes

• Fear of certain places or people

• Self-harm

• Sexual exploitive or aggresive

• Sexually promiscuous

• Physical signs: bruises or soreness of genitals, pregnancy, STD/STI

 

Eating Disorders 

Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating

Symptoms of Anorexia

• Dieting when thin

• Compulsive exercise

• Intense fear of becoming fat

• Rapid weight loss

• Anxiety or depression

• Avoiding meals or eating in private

 

Symptoms of Bulimia and Binge Eating

• Binging large amounts of food

• Vomiting after eatings

• Scarring on knuckles from using fingers to induce throwup

• Excessive exercise

• Anxiety or depression

• Spending a lot of time in bathroom after eating.