Depression

Depression

In 1998, suicide was the eighth leading cause of death for all Americans, for ages 15-24 it was the third leading cause of death, and the second leading killer in most colleges. This is often linked to untreated depression. Throughout the book The Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield, the main character, shows numerous signs of depression. Many of the things that Holden does and says are warning signs of depression, which can later lead to suicidal behavior.

During the first few pages of the book Holden had a conversation with one of his former teachers about his academic under achievements. He flunked out of Pencey, and had other difficulties at Whooton School and Elkton Hills. (13) In many of those schools his grades were not very good. Consequently, in many cases of children's grades dropping refers to depression. The lack of attention in those classes also causes a drop in grades. Holden had problems in most of his classes besides English. In many of his classes his that he did badly in he was not paying attention and not concentrating on what he was doing. He has so much potential and all he is doing with it is putting it to waste. Having problems is just one sign of depression that Holden has.

Along with bad academics, Holden shows signs of depression from his social activities. At the beginning of the book there was a football game going on and everyone was there besides Holden. (3) Instead of sitting in the stands with everyone else, he was on Thomson Hill. After he left and went to visit his former teacher Mr. Spencer, but soon left to return to his dorm so he could be alone again. Having little to no social life is a common sign of depression, especially in teenagers.

Sleep irregularities are common signs of depression. Throughout the book Holden talks about not wanting to go to sleep. (80) He usually avoids going to bed by either leaving or having a conversation with one of his roommates. Another way he tries to avoid sleeping is going out to the bar or even laying in his bed smoking. When he was at the hotel he left late at night to go see one a piano player named Ernie. While he was there he had a couple of drinks even though he was under age. Along with other symptoms that we have talked about the increased use of alcohol can also be an indication of depression. When he finally did go to bed he tended to have trouble