Teen depression is becoming rampant as a result of society’s growing materialism. The pressure in high school to produce and achieve often blinds students to the bigger picture.

Teens look at the adults they know, many of whom have lost sight of their purpose, and they wonder, “What could I possibly be looking forward to in that?”

If we do not have time for fun and relationships now, when opportunities are greatest, then when will we? Society daily places more and more pressure upon teens to achieve.

Many teenagers are just learning to step back and look at what they are doing with their life, and often find that there is not much to it.

Teenage years bring a new curiosity and a need for answers. At a time when one needs the most meaning, students become completely bogged down in the tedium of school.

When the focus becomes merely finishing homework assignments or avoiding tardies, the line between learning and routine activities is blurred. Teen life often becomes superficial.

As a result, life’s smallest mistakes are blown out of proportion. Instead of producing a will to succeed, school often instills a fear of the consequences that accompany failure.

If one is constantly thinking about not sinning, then sin is on one’s mind. Similarly, if one is concentrating on not failing, then failure is an obstacle to be overcome. There has to be a balance. Production is pointless without purpose or hope.

Conversely, going through our lives without challenges or without producing anything quickly becomes just as fruitless.

As someone who previously went through depression, the catalyst to change came when I found relationships with Jesus and with sincere friends. The prospect of serving my Redeemer gave me an ultimate goal and driving force.

A deep, meaningful relationship was what allowed me to regain hope and joy in my life. This brought with it the motivation to succeed. Teenagers need to regain their purpose and passion for life.