Episode 3: The Facts About Depression

Objectives

After listening to the podcast, students will:

• Understand the two kinds of depression and what causes them
• Explore why depression is a serious concern for teens
• List some activities that relieve depression
• Identify where depressed teens can get help

National Health Education Standards

Click the links below to find correlations for the NHES addressed in this activity.

• Grades 6-8                                                • Grades 9-12

Time/Materials Required

• One to two class periods
• Computer with access to the Internet
• Yellow Pages from local telephone book
• Student Activity Worksheet

Downloads

• Download or stream the audio podcast
• Download the podcast script

Facilitating Podcast Activities:

Activity A – Listening and Learning

• Write the word "Depression" on the board and ask students what comes to mind when they hear the word. Ask them what they think causes depression and how you can tell if someone is depressed.
• Arrange for students to hear the podcast in one of two ways: Listen to The Facts About Depression podcast on the class computer or listen using digital media players.
• After students have listened to the podcast, have them answer the questions on the Health Podcast Activity Worksheet. Download the podcast script and use the provided time signature to review key concepts.

Answers:

1. One in five young people suffers from depression in the U.S. [:40-1:05]
2. The two kinds of depression are Reactive and Clinical. [1:50-2:10]
3. Any four of the following: Sadness, anger, irritability, withdrawal from friends, no longer participating in activities they enjoy, feeling helpless, hopeless, or worthless. [3:50-5:40]
4. Any three of the following: talk to a counselor, talk to an adult, call a teen-help line, get regular exercise, talk to a friend, stay involved in activities you enjoy. [5:40-6:22]

Activity B – Recording a PSA: Getting Help For Depression

• Direct students to Activity B. Explain what Public Service Announcements are and how they are used.
• Brainstorm possible resources for teens with depression with your students. Consider both local and online resources.
• Help students identify and find contact information for these resources.
• Help students write their PSAs, emphasizing brevity and clarity.
• Have students practice reading their PSAs aloud.
• Direct students to GCast.com and have them create an anonymous account and record their PSAs. Note: this can also be done using free audio recording/editing software available on the Internet.
• Encourage students to share their PSAs with family and friends.