Editor’s Note: There are instances—chronicled daily—of people’s lives torn apart by substance abuse and depression. Some are high-profile like that of creative genius Robin Williams, while some are cases of local teens harming themselves or others. All are troubling. All are heart breaking. All are preventable. Little Rock Family is partnering with The BridgeWay for a series of four articles over the next few months called “Voices” to provide the perspective of a significant adult in a child’s life, the child themselves, and the professional’s points of view. Everyone needs to be heard and understood when dealing with addiction and subsequent depression. It is our hope this series of articles will encourage someone to seek help and healing before it is too late. For previous reports, read Part 1 and Part 2.

The Coach's Voice

Beth had just returned home when her husband Mike told her that Suzanne’s cheerleading coach, Carol, called. “Apparently, Suzanne pretended to be sick and skipped cheerleading practice several times,” Mike said. “Were you aware of this?” “No,” Beth said, “but I’m not all that surprised when you consider all that has been going on with her.” “She wants to meet with us,” Mike said, “but I’m pretty busy.” “We’re both busy,” Beth said, “but we need to make time.”

Mike and Beth met with Carol at the gym after cheerleading practice. “Thanks for meeting with us,” Beth said as they sat on the bleachers. “Not a problem,” Carol offered, “I just want to let you know what’s happening. Suzanne has missed a couple of practices. I can excuse illness or emergencies, but I can’t make allowances for cheerleaders who just skip practice.”

“That’s understandable,” Beth said, “I think she’s going through a rough time right now.” “I get that,” Carol said, “but if she’s not motivated to be a member of the varsity squad, then maybe she should move to junior varsity or quit altogether.” “I think that would shatter her confidence,” Mike said. “Honestly, I don’t see much confidence in Suzanne,” Carol offered, “is she sick? From my viewpoint, she doesn’t seem to have the energy or enthusiasm to cheer at this level, and competition is fierce. Other girls are eager to take her spot if she doesn’t want it.”

“Thank you,” Beth said, “we’ll meet with her and let her know.” “Suzanne has worked so hard to become a varsity cheerleader,” Mike said, “it would be a shame to see her walk away from it all.”

The Adolescent's Voice

“Why are your parents here?” asked Michelle, Suzanne’s teammate. “They’re just upset because I skipped two practices,” Suzanne answered. “I don’t see what the big deal is. But I’m shocked my dad left work early to come here. He’s never even seen me cheer!” “You know that Carol won’t let you stay on varsity if you miss a third practice,” Michelle said. “I don’t care,” Suzanne responded, “cheerleading is so boring.”

The Professional's Voice

“Carol asked a very good question when she asked Mike and Beth if Suzanne is sick,” says Megan Holt, LCSW, Director of Clinical Services at The BridgeWay. “Because some of Suzanne’s behaviors could be attributed to depressive symptoms, she could be diagnosed as having a depressive disorder, which is a common but serious illness.”

“Although we all may feel sad or have the blues from time to time,” Holt says, “these feelings are short-term and usually pass within a few days. But depression interferes with daily life and causes pain for those with the illness and their loved ones. In this case, we’ve seen how depression may have hampered Suzanne’s progress in school and extracurricular activities.”

“There are many possible causes of depression,” adds Holt. “Depression is likely caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors, and it differs from person to person. From our experience at The BridgeWay, we have seen teens pretend to be sick, refuse to go to school, fail academically, lose interest in activities or act out in some way. These behaviors, combined with irritability or feeling misunderstood, can contribute to a depressive disorder. Yet, because these signs may be considered as normal mood swings typical of teens, it may be difficult to accurately diagnose. Depression during adolescence takes place during a period of great personal change: Boys and girls are forming an identity apart from their parents, dealing with gender issues and sexuality, as well as making decisions for the first time. We have also seen that a depressive disorder amongst teens frequently co-occurs with other disorders such as anxiety, eating disorders or substance abuse. It can also lead to increased risk for suicide, which is what makes depressive disorders such a serious illness at any age. Because each person experiences depressive symptoms differently,” says Holt, “parents should be aware of the signs of depression, which include the following.”

  • Persistent sad, anxious or empty feelings
  • Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
  • Irritability or restlessness
  • Loss of interest in activities or hobbies
  • Fatigue and decreased energy
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
  • Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness or excessive sleeping
  • Overeating or appetite loss
  • Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
  • Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts

“I’m encouraged that her parents are working together,” says Holt. “Although it is tough for some parents to see their child wrestle with the feelings and changes that come with growing up, there is still hope for Suzanne and her family if they seek help.”