DEAR ABBY: I am so sad. I am only 13 and thinking about killing myself. People have told me that it's just my hormones and that is why I'm so moody all the time.
Both my parents suffer from depression. They say it is hereditary. So, Abby, do you think it is my hormones or depression? Please answer as soon as possible. -- CONFUSED
DEAR CONFUSED: Many teenagers have mood swings. But with a family history like yours, they shouldn't be ignored or minimized. The person who should answer your question is your family physician. It is true that depression can run in families, and if your depression has lasted more than two weeks, you should get a medical evaluation. Please don't wait to ask your parents to schedule one.