<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/a5b5/i/2018/149/4/c/05_morning___wake_up_by_xolaen-dccuu65.jpg">
After hitting the snooze button on your alarm several times, you jolt awake to the sudden realization that you have school today. A feeling of fatigue and dread slowly fills your mind.
---
<i>"The symptoms of major depression include sadness, loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable, changes in appetite and sleep, restlessness or slowed body movements, loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts about death and suicide. These symptoms interfere with everyday functioning" (Moragne).</i>
---
[[>You decide to stay in bed, hoping nobody would notice.->Morning: Bedroom - You stay in bed]]
[[>Get out of bed and reluctantly prepare for school.->Morning: Bedroom - You prepare for school]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/65c2/i/2018/149/1/9/06_morning___stay_in_bed_by_xolaen-dccuu64.jpg">
Your mother notices that you missed your bus and storms into your room. She drags you out of bed and drives you to school herself. You arrive to school a bit late.
---
<i>According to Anxiety.org, practicing certain behaviors helps to reduce the risk of teen depression (Cairns, 2016):
• Having a healthy and balanced diet
• Getting enough sleep (between eight and ten hours per night)</i>
---
[[>Next -> Late/ School Hallway]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/43ed/i/2018/149/d/5/07_morning___prep_for_school_by_xolaen-dccuu5w.jpg">
After getting prepared, you manage to eat some breakfast and greet your mother. You barely catch your bus before it leaves, and somehow make it to school on time.
---
<i>According to Anxiety.org, practicing certain behaviors helps to reduce the risk of teen depression (Cairns, 2016):
• Having a healthy and balanced diet
• Getting enough sleep (between eight and ten hours per night)</i>
---
[[>Next->On time: School Hallway]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<b><u><i>A Day in Ted's Life</i></u></b>
An interactive game exploring teenage depression
by Huanran Mao and Vanessa Chen
<i>DIRECTIONS
- Press choices to progress in story
- Reading the given information about depression is recommended</i>
---
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/662b/i/2018/148/5/7/intro_by_xolaen-dccrqpn.jpg">
You are playing as Ted Brown, a young bear attending high school. Throughout your school life, you've been an average student.
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/0d07/i/2018/148/5/7/intro_music_by_xolaen-dccrqon.jpg">
You consider yourself a reserved person who could potentially pursue a music career.
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/f19c/i/2018/148/6/c/intro_friends_and_family_by_xolaen-dccrqoz.jpg">
You have a small circle of outgoing friends who you spend a decent amount of time with. Your parents, although busy, are able to check in with you once in a while.
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/1f93/i/2018/148/1/8/intro_depressed_by_xolaen-dccrqpb.jpg">
For the past few months, you have been dealing with major depression and social anxiety. You’re aware of your worsening emotional stability, but the idea of depression never quite crossed your mind. As days go by sluggishly, you find it harder and harder to go through the day. Every task, no matter how little, has grown more difficult for you.
---
[[Start the Day.->Morning: Bedroom - Wake up]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/decb/i/2018/149/e/6/08_on_time___school_hallway_by_xolaen-dccuu5t.jpg">
After homeroom, your friend Karla sees and greets you cheerfully. She asks if you still want to audition for a music performance in the talent show.
---
<i>A symptom of social anxiety disorder (Mayo Clinic):
• Avoidance of doing or saying things to prevent embarrassment
• Feeling anxiety for an upcoming activity/event</i>
---
[[>You act enthusiastic and tell Karla that you can’t wait for the audition.->Hallway - Lie]]
[[>You admit that you don't feel up to auditioning->Hallway - Truth]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/decb/i/2018/149/e/6/08_on_time___school_hallway_by_xolaen-dccuu5t.jpg">
Karla smiles eagerly and suggests meeting over the weekend, which you agree to.
You hope that performing music like how you used to might revive your optimism, but wonder if you’ll have enough time for everything.
---
<i>“People who are depressed may feel sad or irritable or may lose interest in activities that once gave them pleasure” (Moragne).</i>
---
[[>Attend Class->KLie: Attend Class - Classroom]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/decb/i/2018/149/e/6/08_on_time___school_hallway_by_xolaen-dccuu5t.jpg">
Karla tells you not to worry because she already asked Stacy to be a backup. Her expression didn’t betray any disappointment or annoyance, but you still feel guilty about backing out. You worry about possibly hurting Karla’s feelings, and you evaluate your self-worth after being so easily replaced by Stacy.
---
<i>“People who are depressed may feel sad or irritable or may lose interest in activities that once gave them pleasure” (Moragne).</i>
---
[[>Attend Class->KTruth: Attend Class - Classroom]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/8d68/i/2018/149/b/1/10_classroom___attend_class_by_xolaen-dccuu5h.jpg">
You feel confused throughout the entire math class and stare at your notebooks blankly. The bell rings and your math teacher asks to speak to you alone. Your grades have been slipping recently, and your teacher seems rather concerned about your sudden drop in class performance.
---
[[>You promise to pick up the slack and work harder.->Promise-KLie: Classroom]]
[[>You admit that you've been feeling unmotivated lately.->Admit-KLie: Classroom]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/ff1e/i/2018/149/1/8/09_late___school_hallway_by_xolaen-dccuu5n.jpg">
Your homeroom teacher briefly lectured you for being late. You apologized and went off to class, feeling guilt gnaw at your mind.
---
<i>A common symptom of teenage depression:
• Feeling worthless because of a heightened sensitivity to criticism, rejection, and failure (I Need a Lighthouse 2015)</i>
---
[[>Attend Class->Late/ Attend Class - Classroom]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/41f1/i/2018/149/a/1/11_lunch_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu5b.jpg">
After stepping into the cafeteria, you look around indecisively. For some time now, you felt anxious hanging around large groups. You normally sit with your friend Karla at your usual table, but you feel as though any more conversations would drain all your energy.
Clenching your fists tightly, you muster your strength to make a decision.
---
<i>Social anxiety commonly begins in early to mid teenage years. It causes fear, anxiety, and avoidance that affect daily life (Mayo Clinic).</i>
---
[[>Sit with your usual table->Promise-KLie: Usual Table]]
[[>Go off on your own->Promise-KLie: Lunch Alone]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/8d68/i/2018/149/b/1/10_classroom___attend_class_by_xolaen-dccuu5h.jpg">
You feel confused throughout the entire math class and stare at your notebooks blankly. The bell rings and your math teacher asks to speak to you alone. Your grades have been slipping recently, and your teacher seems rather concerned about your sudden drop in class performance.
---
[[>You promise to pick up the slack and work harder.->Promise-KTruth: Classroom]]
[[>You admit that you've been feeling unmotivated lately.->Admit-KTruth:Classroom]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/c12b/i/2018/149/f/8/12_lunch_usual_table_by_xolaen-dccuu55.jpg">
Karla greets you and excitedly shows you her list of songs that you two could perform. You like her song choices and suggest a few yourself, momentarily enjoying the feeling of sharing music again. However, you feel guilty for not sharing her passion. You internally ask yourself why you’re so distant from your favorite hobby. Self-doubt clouds your mind for the rest of lunch as you evaluate yourself.
---
<i>A symptom of social anxiety disorder (Mayo Clinic):
• Constantly analyzing one’s social behavior and flaws from social interactions</i>
---
[[>Next->Promise: Transition]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/1798/i/2018/149/0/8/14_lunch_alone_by_xolaen-dccuu4v.jpg">
You tell yourself that your friends will understand if you don’t sit with them for just one day, so you spend your lunch in solitude in the bathroom.
---
[[>Next->Promise: Transition]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/41f1/i/2018/149/a/1/11_lunch_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu5b.jpg">
After stepping into the cafeteria, you look around indecisively. For some time now, you felt anxious hanging around large groups. You normally sit with your friend Karla at your usual table, but you feel as though any more conversations would drain all your energy.
You spot Karla at the table, and, to your dismay, Stacy was also there. Your nervousness heightened at the thought of having to hear them discuss the talent show all throughout lunch.
Clenching your fists tightly, you muster your strength to make a decision.
---
<i>Social anxiety commonly begins in early to mid teenage years. It causes fear, anxiety, and avoidance that affect daily life (Mayo Clinic).</i>
---
[[>Sit with your usual table->Admit-KTruth: Usual Table]]
[[>Go off on your own->Admit-KTruth: Lunch Alone]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/60a9/i/2018/149/5/0/13_lunch_usual_table_with_stacy_by_xolaen-dccuu50.jpg">
Sure enough, Karla and Stacy were busy discussing what to perform for the talent show. Your appetite seemed to diminish as guilt and jealousy settled into your stomach. The sound of the bell ringing never sounded more liberating.
---
[[>Next.->Admit: Transition]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/1798/i/2018/149/0/8/14_lunch_alone_by_xolaen-dccuu4v.jpg">
Unable to bear the sight of Stacy, you wait for lunch to end in the bathroom. You begin to overthink your friendships and whether you are worth anything at all. Stacy is an amazing singer, and you...you can’t even enjoy music anymore. Your future looked about as bleak as the bathroom walls.
---
[[Next->Admit: Transition]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/8d68/i/2018/149/b/1/10_classroom___attend_class_by_xolaen-dccuu5h.jpg">
Your teacher believes in you and you leave, feeling as though you made a promise that cannot be fulfilled.
---
[[>Go to lunch->Promise-KTruth: Lunch]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/8d68/i/2018/149/b/1/10_classroom___attend_class_by_xolaen-dccuu5h.jpg">
Your teacher says a few encouraging words and offers an extension to turn in your work. You are told that you can seek extra help after school if needed.
---
[[>Go to lunch->Admit-KTruth: Lunch]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/41f1/i/2018/149/a/1/11_lunch_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu5b.jpg">
After stepping into the cafeteria, you look around indecisively. For some time now, you felt anxious hanging around large groups. You normally sit with your friend Karla at your usual table, but you feel as though any more conversations would drain all your energy.
You spot Karla at the table, and, to your dismay, Stacy was also there. Your nervousness heightened at the thought of having to hear them discuss the talent show all throughout lunch.
Clenching your fists tightly, you muster your strength to make a decision.
---
<i>Social anxiety commonly begins in early to mid teenage years. It causes fear, anxiety, and avoidance that affect daily life (Mayo Clinic).</i>
---
[[>Sit with your usual table->Promise-KTruth: Usual Table]]
[[>Go off on your own->Promise-KTruth: Lunch Alone]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/60a9/i/2018/149/5/0/13_lunch_usual_table_with_stacy_by_xolaen-dccuu50.jpg">
Sure enough, Karla and Stacy were busy discussing what to perform for the talent show. Your appetite seemed to diminish as guilt and jealousy settled into your stomach. The sound of the bell ringing never sounded more liberating.
---
[[>Next.->Promise: Transition]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/1798/i/2018/149/0/8/14_lunch_alone_by_xolaen-dccuu4v.jpg">
Unable to bear the sight of Stacy, you wait for lunch to end in the bathroom. You begin to overthink your friendships and whether you are worth anything at all. Stacy is an amazing singer, and you...you can’t even enjoy music anymore. Your future looked about as bleak as the bathroom walls.
---
[[>Next.->Promise: Transition]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/8d68/i/2018/149/b/1/10_classroom___attend_class_by_xolaen-dccuu5h.jpg">
Your teacher believes in you and you leave, feeling as though you made a promise that cannot be fulfilled.
---
[[>Go to lunch.->Promise-KLie: Lunch]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/8d68/i/2018/149/b/1/10_classroom___attend_class_by_xolaen-dccuu5h.jpg">
Your teacher says a few encouraging words and offers an extension to turn in your work. You are told that you can seek extra help after school if needed.
---
[[>Go to lunch.->Admit-KLie: Lunch]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/41f1/i/2018/149/a/1/11_lunch_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu5b.jpg">
After stepping into the cafeteria, you look around indecisively. For some time now, you felt anxious hanging around large groups. You normally sit with your friend Karla at your usual table, but you feel as though any more conversations would drain all your energy.
Clenching your fists tightly, you muster your strength to make a decision.
---
<i>Social anxiety commonly begins in early to mid teenage years. It causes fear, anxiety, and avoidance that affect daily life (Mayo Clinic).</i>
---
[[>Sit with your usual table->Admit-KLie: Usual Table]]
[[>Go off on your own->Admit-KLie: Lunch Alone]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/ae6c/i/2018/149/b/f/15_transition_by_xolaen-dccuu4p.jpg">
After lunch, you go through the rest of your classes aimlessly, every moment blurring past you like a hazy, repeated memory.
---
<i>A common symptom of teenage depression:
• Aches and pains (such as in the stomach and head) that seem to appear without much reason (I Need a Lighthouse 2015).</i>
---
[[>Next->Promise: Tennis]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/275e/i/2018/149/e/9/16_tennis_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu4m.jpg">
The school day finally comes to an end. After tennis practice, you can finally go home. Your weariness grows into a dull annoyance as you walk towards the tennis court. You wish you could conjure the old enthusiasm for tennis, but that felt impossible now.
---
[[>Try to put in effort anyway.->Effort-Promise: Practise]]
[[>Play half-heartedly.->Half-Promise: Practise]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/caa5/i/2018/149/9/4/17_tennis___practise_by_xolaen-dccuu4d.jpg">
You somehow find yourself even more exhausted after practice. Your coach praises your hard work, but you barely absorb his words. Practice ends and you take a bus back home, dozing off almost instantly during the ride...
---
[[>Next->Effort-Promise: Pre-Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/caa5/i/2018/149/9/4/17_tennis___practise_by_xolaen-dccuu4d.jpg">
Practice goes by dully, and as soon as your coach calls it a day, you end up being the first player to leave. On the bus ride back home, you try not to overthink your decision to play half-heartedly. Surely your coach did not think you were being disrespectful in any way? Before you know it, your mind grows cluttered with conflicting thoughts again, and you arrive home agitated.
---
[[>Next->Half-Promise: Pre-Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/9458/i/2018/149/9/6/18_front_door_by_xolaen-dccuu41.jpg">
You ended up getting off several stops late, and you had to walk back home. The frantic feeling of oversleeping again made your heart thump heavily. You reached your street around thirty minutes later than usual.
---
[[>Next->Effort-Promise: Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/d641/i/2018/149/3/d/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuvj2.jpg">
The familiar view of your house’s front door both comforts and haunts you.
As soon as you walk in, your parents, already eating dinner, look at you and ask why you’re back late.
---
[[>"There was traffic and the bus was late."->Slept-Effort-Promise-KLie: Dinner]]
[[>"I slept and missed my stop on the bus."->Traffic-Effort-Promise-KLie: Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/9458/i/2018/149/9/6/18_front_door_by_xolaen-dccuu41.jpg">
The familiar view of your house’s front door both comforts and haunts you.
You drop your bag off in your room, about to lock yourself in for the night, but your mother catches you just in time.
---
[[>Next->Half-Promise: Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/7676/i/2018/149/4/2/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu3m.jpg">
Your parents believe you and call you to eat dinner with them. You eat at an excruciatingly slow pace as they debate about traffic hours. After finishing your meal, you return to your room without another word.
---
[[>Next->Bad End]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/7676/i/2018/149/4/2/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu3m.jpg">
Your parents are concerned about your sleeping patterns and constant fatigue. They coax you into telling them about your workload, and you express your worry and stress about meeting academic expectations.
---
[[>Next->Teacher Appointment Good End]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/e9af/i/2018/149/0/8/21_final_scene_by_xolaen-dccuu3l.jpg">
You lie in bed, staring at the blank ceiling of your room. The day’s events replayed in your mind on loop, seeming to overlap and morph into a hazy fog that clouded your eyes.
As you shut your heavy eyelids, you prepared yourself for the day to repeat, over and over again...
End.
---
<i>WebMD recommend seeking proper diagnosis and treatment if you experience depression longer than one to two weeks (2017)</i>
---
[[>Replay?->Character Introduction]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/e9af/i/2018/149/0/8/21_final_scene_by_xolaen-dccuu3l.jpg">
Your parents are surprisingly understanding. They offer their own advice and suggest making an appointment with your teachers if needed.
You go to bed wondering if things could really start improving. Slight uncertainty flickered in your mind, but as you inhaled gently, you could feel a faint hope flow into your lungs...
End.
---
<i>“Norepinephrine regulates alertness, so when there is an inadequate amount in the brain, symptoms such as fatigue and a sad mood result” (Moragne).</i>
---
[[>Replay?->Character Introduction]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/d641/i/2018/149/3/d/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuvj2.jpg">
You then find yourself sitting at the dining table uncomfortably. Seeing your lack of interest in dinner, your parents try and coax you into eating more. You poke at your food. Discontented with your behavior, they ask what was bothering you.
---
[[>Tell them you're just tired.->Tired-Half-Promise-KLie: Dinner]]
[[>Tell them everything.->Everything-Half-Promise-KLie: Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/7676/i/2018/149/4/2/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu3m.jpg">
You tell your parents that you had a rough day at school, and a good night’s sleep will allow you to recover. They doubt that you told them the truth, but send you up to your room to rest after forcing you to eat more.
---
[[>Next.->Bad End]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/7676/i/2018/149/4/2/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu3m.jpg">
You start with today’s events and eventually pour out all your emotions. You tell them about everything that haunts you - constant stress over academics, social anxieties, loss of motivation for your future - and feel the lump at the back of your throat loosen ever so slightly. Your parents listen intently from start to end, and when your shaky voice begins to falter, they hug you and comfort you with warm words.
---
[[>Next.->Psychiatrist Appointment Good End]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/c12b/i/2018/149/f/8/12_lunch_usual_table_by_xolaen-dccuu55.jpg">
Karla greets you and excitedly shows you her list of songs that you two could perform. You like her song choices and suggest a few yourself, momentarily enjoying the feeling of sharing music again. However, you feel guilty for not sharing her passion. You internally ask yourself why you’re so distant from your favorite hobby. Self-doubt clouds your mind for the rest of lunch as you evaluate yourself.
---
<i>A symptom of social anxiety disorder (Mayo Clinic):
• Constantly analyzing one’s social behavior and flaws from social interactions</i>
---
[[>Next->Admit: Transition]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/1798/i/2018/149/0/8/14_lunch_alone_by_xolaen-dccuu4v.jpg">
You tell yourself that your friends will understand if you don’t sit with them for just one day, so you spend your lunch in solitude in the bathroom.
---
[[>Next->Admit: Transition]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/ae6c/i/2018/149/b/f/15_transition_by_xolaen-dccuu4p.jpg">
After lunch, you go through the rest of your classes aimlessly, every moment blurring past you like a hazy, repeated memory.
---
<i>A common symptom of teenage depression:
• Aches and pains (such as in the stomach and head) that seem to appear without much reason (I Need a Lighthouse 2015).</i>
---
[[>Next->Admit: Tennis]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/275e/i/2018/149/e/9/16_tennis_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu4m.jpg">
The school day finally comes to an end. After tennis practice, you can finally go home. Your weariness grows into a dull annoyance as you walk towards the tennis court. You wish you could conjure the old enthusiasm for tennis, but that felt impossible now.
---
[[>Try to put in effort anyway.->Effort-Admit: Practise]]
[[>Play half-heartedly.->Half-Admit: Practise]]
[[>Ask to see your math teacher instead of tennis practice.->Math-Admit: Practise]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/caa5/i/2018/149/9/4/17_tennis___practise_by_xolaen-dccuu4d.jpg">
You somehow find yourself even more exhausted after practice. Your coach praises your hard work, but you barely absorb his words. Practice ends and you take a bus back home, dozing off almost instantly during the ride...
---
[[>Next->Effort-Admit: Pre-Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/caa5/i/2018/149/9/4/17_tennis___practise_by_xolaen-dccuu4d.jpg">
Practice goes by dully, and as soon as your coach calls it a day, you end up being the first player to leave. On the bus ride back home, you try not to overthink your decision to play half-heartedly. Surely your coach did not think you were being disrespectful in any way? Before you know it, your mind grows cluttered with conflicting thoughts again, and you arrive home agitated.
---
[[>Next->Half-Admit: Pre-Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/0beb/i/2018/149/c/6/17_tutorial_by_xolaen-dccuu48.jpg">
With some persuasion, you get your coach’s permission to get help from your math teacher.
Your teacher was pleased that you came and helped you catch up on your math assignments. You could better grasp the topics and learned how to do the problems on your own. After thanking your teacher, you take the bus back home, feeling momentarily at ease.
---
[[>Next->Math-Admit: Pre-Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/9458/i/2018/149/9/6/18_front_door_by_xolaen-dccuu41.jpg">
You ended up getting off several stops late, and you had to walk back home. The frantic feeling of oversleeping again made your heart thump heavily. You reached your street around thirty minutes later than usual.
---
[[>Next->Effort-Admit: Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/d641/i/2018/149/3/d/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuvj2.jpg">
The familiar view of your house’s front door both comforts and haunts you.
As soon as you walk in, your parents, already eating dinner, look at you and ask why you’re back late.
---
[[>"There was traffic and the bus was late."->Traffic-Effort-Admit-KLie: Dinner]]
[[>"I slept and missed my stop on the bus."->Slept-Effort-Admit-KLie: Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/7676/i/2018/149/4/2/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu3m.jpg">
Your parents are concerned about your sleeping patterns and constant fatigue. They coax you into telling them about your workload, and you express your worry and stress about meeting academic expectations.
---
[[>Next->Teacher Appointment Good End]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/7676/i/2018/149/4/2/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu3m.jpg">
Your parents believe you and call you to eat dinner with them. You eat at an excruciatingly slow pace as they debate about traffic hours. After finishing your meal, you return to your room without another word.
---
[[>Next->Bad End]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/9458/i/2018/149/9/6/18_front_door_by_xolaen-dccuu41.jpg">
The familiar view of your house’s front door both comforts and haunts you.
You drop your bag off in your room, about to lock yourself in for the night, but your mother catches you just in time.
---
[[>Next->Half-Admit: Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/d641/i/2018/149/3/d/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuvj2.jpg">
You then find yourself sitting at the dining table uncomfortably. Seeing your lack of interest in dinner, your parents try and coax you into eating more. You poke at your food. Discontented with your behavior, they ask what was bothering you.
---
[[>Tell them you're just tired.->Tired-Half-Admit-KLie: Dinner]]
[[>Tell them everything.->Everything-Half-Admit-KLie: Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/7676/i/2018/149/4/2/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu3m.jpg">
You tell your parents that you had a rough day at school, and a good night’s sleep will allow you to recover. They doubt that you told them the truth, but send you up to your room to rest after forcing you to eat more.
---
[[>Next.->Bad End]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/7676/i/2018/149/4/2/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu3m.jpg">
You start with today’s events and eventually pour out all your emotions. You tell them about everything that haunts you - constant stress over academics, social anxieties, loss of motivation for your future - and feel the lump at the back of your throat loosen ever so slightly. Your parents listen intently from start to end, and when your shaky voice begins to falter, they hug you and comfort you with warm words.
---
[[>Next.->Psychiatrist Appointment Good End]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/e9af/i/2018/149/0/8/21_final_scene_by_xolaen-dccuu3l.jpg">
Your parents are surprisingly understanding. They offer their own advice and suggest making an appointment with a psychiatrist if needed.
You go to bed feeling as though the cold, heavy stones in your stomach have disappeared. Slight uncertainty flickered in your mind, but as you inhaled gently, you could feel a faint hope flow into your lungs...
End.
---
<i>“Depression can be treated with psychotherapy or a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy involves meeting with a therapist (such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or social worker) to discuss problems and their solutions and to improve social skills and build self-esteem. Antidepressant medication boosts the amounts of brain chemicals that become depleted during episodes of depression. Regulating the amounts of these neurotransmitters leads to more accurate and more positive thinking” (Moragne).</i>
---
[[>Replay?->Character Introduction]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/9458/i/2018/149/9/6/18_front_door_by_xolaen-dccuu41.jpg">
The familiar view of your house’s front door both comforts and haunts you.
You drop your bag off in your room, about to lock yourself in for the night, but your mother catches you just in time.
---
[[>Next->Math-Admit: Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/d641/i/2018/149/3/d/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuvj2.jpg">
You then find yourself sitting at the dining table uncomfortably. Seeing your lack of interest in dinner, your parents try and coax you into eating more. You poke at your food. Discontented with your behavior, they ask what was bothering you.
---
[[>Tell them you're just tired.->Tired-Math-Admit-KLie: Dinner]]
[[>Tell them everything.->Everything-Half-Admit-KLie: Dinner]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/7676/i/2018/149/4/2/20_dinner_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu3m.jpg">
You tell your parents that you had a rough day at school, and a good night’s sleep will allow you to recover. They doubt that you told them the truth, but send you up to your room to rest after forcing you to eat more.
---
[[>Next.->Working Late End]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/e9af/i/2018/149/0/8/21_final_scene_by_xolaen-dccuu3l.jpg">
After dinner, you attempted to complete all your assignments with what little strength you had left. Nearly two hours passed, and you were already dozing off between questions. Unable to continue, you crawl into bed and sigh, trying not to let worry and guilt torment your dreams. Your wall clock’s ticking slowly lulls you to sleep, and as you allow yourself to shut down, you pray that the night will take your exhaustion away once and for all.
End.
---
<i>“Serotonin regulates sleep, appetite, motor activity, and aggression, so when there is an inadequate amount in the brain, symptoms such as sleeplessness, irritability, and anxiety result. ” (Moragne).</i>
---
[[>Replay?->Character Introduction]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/8d68/i/2018/149/b/1/10_classroom___attend_class_by_xolaen-dccuu5h.jpg">
You feel confused throughout the entire math class and stare at your notebooks blankly. The bell rings and your math teacher asks to speak to you alone. Your grades have been slipping recently, and your teacher seems rather concerned about your sudden drop in class performance.
---
[[>You promise to pick up the slack and work harder.->Late/ Promise: Classroom]]
[[>You admit that you've been feeling unmotivated lately.->Late/ Admit: Classroom]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/8d68/i/2018/149/b/1/10_classroom___attend_class_by_xolaen-dccuu5h.jpg">
Your teacher believes in you and you leave, feeling as though you made a promise that cannot be fulfilled.
---
[[>Go to lunch.->Late/ Promise: Lunch]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/8d68/i/2018/149/b/1/10_classroom___attend_class_by_xolaen-dccuu5h.jpg">
Your teacher says a few encouraging words and offers an extension to turn in your work. You are told that you can seek extra help after school if needed.
---
[[>Go to lunch.->Late/ Admit: Lunch]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/41f1/i/2018/149/a/1/11_lunch_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu5b.jpg">
After stepping into the cafeteria, you look around indecisively. For some time now, you felt anxious hanging around large groups. You normally sit with your friend Karla at your usual table, but you feel as though any more conversations would drain all your energy.
Clenching your fists tightly, you muster your strength to make a decision.
---
<i>Social anxiety commonly begins in early to mid teenage years. It causes fear, anxiety, and avoidance that affect daily life (Mayo Clinic).</i>
---
[[>Sit with your usual table.->Late/ Promise: Usual Table]]
[[>Go off on your own->Late/ Promise: Lunch Alone]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/41f1/i/2018/149/a/1/11_lunch_decision_by_xolaen-dccuu5b.jpg">
After stepping into the cafeteria, you look around indecisively. For some time now, you felt anxious hanging around large groups. You normally sit with your friend Karla at your usual table, but you feel as though any more conversations would drain all your energy.
Clenching your fists tightly, you muster your strength to make a decision.
---
<i>Social anxiety commonly begins in early to mid teenage years. It causes fear, anxiety, and avoidance that affect daily life (Mayo Clinic).</i>
---
[[>Sit with your usual table.->Late/ Admit: Usual Table]]
[[>Go off on your own->Late/ Admit: Lunch Alone]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/c12b/i/2018/149/f/8/12_lunch_usual_table_by_xolaen-dccuu55.jpg">
Karla is happy to see you and asks if you’re still up to auditioning for the talent show.
---
<i>A symptom of social anxiety disorder (Mayo Clinic):
• Feeling anxiety for an upcoming activity/event</i>
---
[[>Tell her you're excited.->Late/ KLie-Promise: Usual Table]]
[[>Tell her that you're too stressed.->Late/ KTruth-Promise: Usual Table]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/1798/i/2018/149/0/8/14_lunch_alone_by_xolaen-dccuu4v.jpg">
You would rather not deal with many conversations today, so you walk off to the bathroom. You glance at the bathroom mirror, mildly disgusted with how bedraggled and unhealthy you appear.
---
[[>Next.->Promise: Transition]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/c12b/i/2018/149/f/8/12_lunch_usual_table_by_xolaen-dccuu55.jpg">
Karla is happy to see you and asks if you’re still up to auditioning for the talent show.
---
<i>A symptom of social anxiety disorder (Mayo Clinic):
• Feeling anxiety for an upcoming activity/event</i>
---
[[>Tell her you're excited.->Late/ KLie-Admit: Usual Table]]
[[>Tell her that you're too stressed.->Late/ KTruth-Admit: Usual Table]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/1798/i/2018/149/0/8/14_lunch_alone_by_xolaen-dccuu4v.jpg">
You would rather not deal with many conversations today, so you walk off to the bathroom. You glance at the bathroom mirror, mildly disgusted with how bedraggled and unhealthy you appear.
---
[[>Next.->Admit: Transition]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/c12b/i/2018/149/f/8/12_lunch_usual_table_by_xolaen-dccuu55.jpg">
Your anxiousness of being around so many people makes your excitement less convincing. Karla clearly doubts your response, so she apologizes for possibly dragging you into something you never wanted to do. You end up telling the truth about having too much work and stress, which she responds to with compassion and understanding.
Karla tells you not to do things just for her sake, which makes you feel an odd mixture of relief and guilt.
---
<i>A symptom of social anxiety disorder (Mayo Clinic):
• Constantly analyzing one’s social behavior and flaws from social interactions</i>
---
[[>Next.->Promise: Transition]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/c12b/i/2018/149/f/8/12_lunch_usual_table_by_xolaen-dccuu55.jpg">
You tell Karla that you’ve been feeling disconnected from performing music, and that you were constantly stressed. She understands and sympathizes with you, sharing her own experiences of feeling unmotivated as well. The two of you talk all throughout lunch and you feel like your heart weighs a little less.
---
<i>Depression will occur for 20% of teenagers during the process of growing up (I Need a Lighthouse, 2015).</i>
---
[[>Next.->Promise: Transition]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/c12b/i/2018/149/f/8/12_lunch_usual_table_by_xolaen-dccuu55.jpg">
Your anxiousness of being around so many people makes your excitement less convincing. Karla clearly doubts your response, so she apologizes for possibly dragging you into something you never wanted to do. You end up telling the truth about having too much work and stress, which she responds to with compassion and understanding.
Karla tells you not to do things just for her sake, which makes you feel an odd mixture of relief and guilt.
---
<i>A symptom of social anxiety disorder (Mayo Clinic):
• Constantly analyzing one’s social behavior and flaws from social interactions</i>
---
[[>Next.->Admit: Transition]] <style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src="https://img00.deviantart.net/c12b/i/2018/149/f/8/12_lunch_usual_table_by_xolaen-dccuu55.jpg">
You tell Karla that you’ve been feeling disconnected from performing music, and that you were constantly stressed. She understands and sympathizes with you, sharing her own experiences of feeling unmotivated as well. The two of you talk all throughout lunch and you feel like your heart weighs a little less.
---
<i>Depression will occur for 20% of teenagers during the process of growing up (I Need a Lighthouse, 2015).</i>
---
[[>Next.->Admit: Transition]]