Health Tips for June 7

Health Tip: When Teens Are Depressed

Every teen has occasional bouts with bad moods.

But when these feelings become debilitating or last for weeks or months, they could be a sign of depression.

Helpguide.org says the most important thing teens can do is talk to others about what they're going through. The group offers these suggestions:

• Talk to friends, school counselors, parents, family, or teachers about your feelings.
• If school, grades, or exams are contributing to depression, talk to your teachers and guidance counselors for support.
• If you're worried about being pregnant, talk to your doctor or a family planning clinic.
• Stay busy, and surround yourself with positive people who make you feel good about yourself. Avoid people involved with drugs and alcohol.
• Talk to your doctor about whether medication and counseling are appropriate options.

Health Tip: Women Have Pattern Baldness, Too

Age, changes in hormone levels, and genetics can contribute to pattern baldness in women, as more frequently occurs in men.

Here are possible treatment options for female pattern baldness, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

• Minoxidil, a prescription treatment applied to the scalp, may help restore hair growth.
• Hair transplants (hair plugs) involve implanting hair follicles into the scalp, and may lead to permanent hair growth and restoration.
• Different hairstyles can mask areas of baldness.
• Hairpieces or hair weaves can disguise baldness and improve cosmetic appearance.