Carol Okana

My younger sister is very dear to me.  She is turning fifteen this September.  Every since she was little, she's always been a melancholy kid.  Kind of somber, introverted, and quiet.  I often wondered if she had depression because of her severe mood swings, reluctance to go out, and just her general state of being.  I had asked my mom about it and she said that the mood swings were mainly based on her ADD, because severe mood swings are a common sign of ADD in teenage girls.  I accepted this explanation and moved on.  During these last few months, I discovered that my suspicions were correct and my sweet baby sister was diagnosed with clinical depression when she was in sixth grade, almost three years ago.  When I found out, I wasn't really surprised.  I was mostly sad that it was actually true.  Especially because I have a friend who's been in and out of hospitals because of severe depression and anxiety.  I don't want that fate for my sister.  I try to be supportive, but it's hard when I've never battled with depression or anxiety.  But, I'm still going to be there for her.