I’m 15 and I have been diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorder. I’m also anemic which doesn’t help my situation at all. I’ve seen 5 different counselors and none have helped me. They’ve only asked if I knew any triggers – which I don’t because there isn’t any reason for me to feel this way. I’ve not had a dramatic loss, I’m not being bullied and my home life is pretty good.
On paper my life is fantastic but for some reason my brain doesn’t see it that way. I’ve been feeling suicidal and sad for the past 18 months but have only sought out help recently. Since seeking help my family has become aware and more supportive, my friends are more sympathetic and people are starting to understand more. I’ve been referred to a mental health association thing and I’m starting a different kind of therapy there tomorrow.
I do feel that speaking out has helped me because although I’m not “cured” people around me get it a bit better which does somewhat help. I would definitely encourage others to speak out about their mental health since I have encouraged 2 other friends to tell their families. It isn’t something which should be taken lightly and although you can’t see it it’s still there and is a daily struggle for anyone who suffers from mental illness.
I am 36 years old today. I was diagnosed with depression at age 17 years old. It was a very confusing time for me, especially with my fluncuating and changing horomones. I had a great, loving family and friends, had a roof over my head, all the food I wanted to eat, nice clothes, but I kept asking myself why was I so sad and why did I have the tendency to isolate myself in my bedroom most of the time. My mother recognized signs that I might have some kind of mental health issue. She helped me find the right psychologist and professionals helped me find the right medication that fit me. I went through many different types of talk therapy and tried many different medications with some difficult side effects. Thinking back now, I don’t know how I made it through those difficult years, but I had a few friends and my mother by my side there to sit with me when I couldn’t get out of bed, to laugh with me when I we watched funny movies, and let me cry on their shoulder when I was confused and frustrated. Today, I am still learning how to open up and talk about my depression without fear of judgment. I choose to only surround myself with people who have a positive influence on my life, who support me in everything that I do, and treats me like just another human of a society who deserves to live a healthy and happy life. I hope you too find a community of people who you can trust that will be there with you every step of your journey! I wish you peace, love, and health.
Hi,
I’m 58 and have been dealing with depression, PTSD and bipolar for over 20 years. Looking back I also had depression during puberty and I believe it is linked to my hormonal fluctuations.
I try a wholistic approach of diet, exercise and a full night’s sleep along with my medication.
Being anemic can be exhausting as well. I hope your doctor can suggest supplements and iron rich foods.
Do speak up, have someone you trust to talk with. My sister committed suicide in March and no one had a clue. She couldn’t reach out. I’m back in therapy to take care of myself during this time of grief.
Wishing you both health and healing.
Never give up get help and keep seeking the right help until it works for you there is no one size fits All! May God Bless You! PS… Find what makes you happy and do it as often as possible no matter what! It’s your Life, Always live it to the fullest! PEACE ✌