1. By: Amanda Cermak

2. Depression- ”a state of feeling sad: a psychoneurotic or psychotic disorder marked by sadness, inactivity, difficulty in thinking and concentration…”(Webster's 9 th New Collegiate Dictionary, pg. 341)

3. There are many symptoms of depression; including, fatigue, tiredness, agitation, loss or gain in weight, loss of motivation and sadness.

4. Throughout the novel ‘Speak’ Melinda Sordino displays many signs of depression. 1) Poor communication 2) Loss of interest 3) Inability to concentrate 4) Loss of motivation 5) Loses relationships with family and friends because she is withdrawn; she fades into a state of “numbness”.

5.  It is recommended that people suffering from depression, consult a doctor before the disease progresses and possibly becomes fatal.  Treatments can range from medication, mental health treatment programs, and psychotherapy.  The healing process takes time and patience. It can take several weeks before medications take affect. Psychotherapy can take several months and possibly years. Treatment needs to be closely monitored by a psychiatrist or family practitioner.

6. - Google Images http://www.google.com/images?hl=en&source=imghp&biw=1596&bih=728&q=depression&gbv=2&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=& gs_rfaihttp://www.google.com/images?hl=en&source=imghp&biw=1596&bih=728&q=depression&gbv=2&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=& gs_rfai= - Depression Signs & Symptoms http://www.seroquelxr.com/major-depressive-disorder/depression-symptoms.aspx?\