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Blinded By The Dark: CityNews Explores Teen Depression, Parts 1-5

12/02/2010 | CityNews.ca Staff

They are years that are often glorified once we're well past them, but our 'teens' can be a tumultuous time filled with pressure from school, parents and peers. In some, depression is fleeting and circumstantial, but in others it can be all-encompassing, leading to a plethora of serious problems and in extreme cases, suicide.

All week long CityNews will explore the often hushed topic, hoping to shed some light on the darkness.

In Part One, reporter Avery Haines introduces us to Ryan --- one of three brave teens who choose to share their story in hopes of helping others survive.

In Part Two, we meet Hailey, who recovered from crippling depression with the help of a running group.

In Part Three, Avery Haines speaks to three teens and their families, examining why teen depression is more common than you may think.

In Part 4, Avery delves deeper into the science behind depression and tackles some tough questions associated with finding appropriate treatment for teens.

In the final part of her series 'Blinded By The Dark', we meet the parents of Alex Herbert, a gifted athlete and promising actor who took his own life at the age of 20. Despite their heartbreak, Alex's parents are working to assure that no other family has to endure a similar loss.