Depression

Written by Sofia Noriega, a Ventura County high school student.

Artwork by Eve Zhong, a Medea Creek Middle School student.

The sadness I feel every day and night 

No one to talk to through the pain I hide

Feeling alone and empty through my life 

Tears in my eyes like a big ocean tide

I can still pretend and put on a smile

Questioning my existence, can't give in

Like a war in my head, constant battles

I lost myself due to the voice within

My heart aches with all I am holding in

Feeling like I am doing something wrong

Never ending thoughts of misbelieving

Tired of listening to depressing songs

It may seem hard to find a way out of this,

But I know I will find my happiness.

And so can you!

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or depression, here are some resources that may be helpful. Don't be afraid to ask for help! It's okay to not be okay.

Teen Line:

Call 1-800-852-8336 (from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. PST)

Text TEEN to 839863 (from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. PST)

Offering anonymous support for teenagers by phone, text or email. No problem is too small, too larger, or too shocking for the trained Teen Line volunteers.

Crisis Text Line: Text HOPE to 741-741

Connect with a crisis counselor 24/7 to receive high-quality text-based mental health support and crisis intervention.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

A 24-hour, toll-free, confidential suicide prevention hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860A

24/7 lifeline run by and for trans people, providing direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis.

The Trevor Lifeline: 866-488-7386

The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13-24.