Depression in High Achievers

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Most definitely not in poor taste! Depression is very common amongst the high achievers I have known. To be willing to help others when you understand yourself deserves a great deal of admiration.

The problem doesn't only affect students who are "high achievers", as many students who are capable of great things may not do as well in school. I would say it is more of an issue that we try to force all young people to learn and mature at exactly the same rate. A system in which everyone is allowed to flourish at their own pace would help, unfortunately that is not the world in which we currently live.

Regardless of the academic environment in which you may find yourself, organizations like FIRST are promoting an environment in which young people can shine. Our rookie year, we had a student who went from the top of the detention list to becoming a key member of the team and is now in college studying engineering. He suffers significantly from depression, as do I. It is important that we always offer those lifelines to anyone who does.

Thank you so much for being willing to help others by talking about it.