I'd like to explain depression and grief/sadness for a better understanding
of your feelings.

*Depression is more than being sad. It has been described as feeling 
  physically as if you have a bad case of the flu and mentally
  like nothing you do is right.

*You may not care about the things you used to care about.
 
*Your friends are suddenly different than you are. They make a big deal out 
  of things that you know are no big deal.
  
*You are grieving for the way things used to be before cancer entered your 
  life.

Differences between grief and depression:     

*Grief =greater range of moods and feelings. Quick shifts from sadness to a 
            normal state in the same day.

*Depression= Moods and feelings are more static, little variability.
                     consistent sense of depletion.
                   
*Grief= Internally or externally directed and capable of expression.  
*Depression= Absence of externally directed anger, internally directed.

*Grief= weeping   
*Depression= Difficulty weeping or controlling weeping.
  

*Grief= Guilt associated with specific aspects of the illness. Experience of the 
            world as empty and meaningless. Preoccupation with the illness. 
*Depression= The loss confirms they are bad or worthless. Preoccupation with self.
  

*Recognize that sadness is NOT a sign of weakness

*Avoid denial, and know that it is okay to be sad; it’s totally normal for a 
  teen in your situation to experience sadness

*Set aside time to deal with your feelings of sadness so you aren’t crushed 
  with a wave of sadness during everyday activities


*Focus on the positive and give thanks for all of the good things in your life 

*Meet with your school’s guidance counselor to discuss resources that are 
  available in your community to help you manage your emotions
  
*A confidential online screening for depression may help determine whether 
  an evaluation by a mental health professional is necessary. Check out   
  http://www.depression-screening.org/