All over the world, people struggle daily with one or more mental illnesses. Some of these people have been diagnosed because of the symptoms they experience, while others struggle in silence. For those who have received help, life gradually seems brighter, while their loved ones strive to help them in whatever way they can. One of the serious mental illnesses that adolescents struggle with is depression. There are various aspects of why a teenager may develop depression, including social, school or family problems, as well as stress or past problems; However, if others recognize the warning signs, complications can be avoided and treatment can be obtained to overcome depression. Depression “extends beyond sadness to illness that affects a person's ability to function properly.” It can be caused by a "reduced level of the neurotransmitter serotonin" in a person's brain ("Teen Depression"; Mayo Clinic staff). However, depression can have various aspects aside from a chemical imbalance. Changes in relationships and friendships, the recent death of a family member, peer pressure, various types of abuse, trauma, bullying, puberty, sexual orientation and academic difficulties are all Factors that, alone or in combination, can cause an individual to develop depression. (“Teen Depression”; Goldenberg; Mayo Clinic Staff). All of these social, physical and academic aspects can be some of the reasons why a teenager develops depression. Aside from the various causes that can trigger depression, some people are more likely to develop depression. inclined to develop it. Women are at greater risk of suffering from depression than men, due to the way they react to their environment (“Teen Depression”). For example, women are more likely to list...... middle of paper ......., 1998. Print.Crist, James J. What to do when you're sad and alone. Minneapolis: Free Spirit Publishing Inc., 2006. Print. Depaulo, J. Raymond, Jr. Understanding Depression. New York: John Wiley & Sons Inc., 2002. Print. Goldenberg, J. “Teen Depression.” MDWeb. Web MD and Web. February 12, 2014. Mayo Clinic Staff, . “Adolescent Depression.” MayoClinic.org. Mayo Clinic, November 7, 2012. Web. February 16, 2014. Smith, Melinda, Suzanne Barston and Jeanne Segal. “Adolescent Depression: A Guide for Parents.” » HelpGuide.org. Np, and Web. February 13, 2014. “Adolescent Depression.” MedicineNet.com. Medicine Net, INC, May 31, 2013. Web. February 13 2014. .