About 20% of teens will experience depression before reaching adulthood. About 10% of teens have some symptoms of depression at any given time. 5% of those will be major depression.

Only about 30% get any kind of treatment. (PsychCentral.com)

Freshman, Jazmin Bluitt is one of the 20% who has been battling with this illness for three years. 

“I was always happy most of the time, and didn’t have to worry about many things,” Jazmin said. “I would always want to go out and have fun and expand my social life, and have more experiences.”

Lisa Bluitt, Jazmin’s mom has always been there for her daughter, as years went she noticed some behavioral changes as Jazmin grew.

“As Jazmin’s mom, I did recognize signs that she may have depression partly because I experienced similar behavior at a young age,” Lisa Bluitt said. “However, I did not realize the symptoms of depression until I was much older.”

Despite all of this Jazmin has many people by her side to help, one being her online friend Samantha. 

“I met Jazmin online while playing video games, and I first heard about her depression when she pushed herself away from everyone,” Samantha said. “This happened over the Summer. “

 As an introvert and not so social, Jazmin didn’t know where to turn but the internet, and to her new friend Samantha.

 “I always go to Samantha for help, and I help her also,” Jazmin said. “She understands what I am going through and wants to help as much as possible.”

Multiple times Samantha didn’t know how to help Jazmin and would often find herself staying up late trying to find the right words to say.

“Whenever she gets upset or I notice she will start to distance herself, I try to talk to her,” Samantha said. “Sometimes it would take some time for her to open up, but you have to deal with it.”

For more than two years Jazmin’s mom has been trying to help her as well with her depression, and although she feels it helps, Jazmin has yet to accept the guidance.

 “Everyone including her has good days and bad days, so I’m hopeful she has taken my advice to improve her mood and situation when episodes do occur,” Lisa Bluitt said. ” It takes time to learn by yourself and I think at such a young age she’s doing her best.”

Just four month ago, Samantha tried to help Jazmin through an episode, and Jazmin still has yet to open up fully, but she hopes for the best for Jazmin.

“If I’m being honest I don’t know if I see a light in the darkness,” Jazmin said. ” However, with all the help and support from friends and family, the light shining through is possible.”