I need help.

[AnonymousTeen]

I feel like I have Anxiety and Depression, I've been reading these websites and they all say I have it. I want to seek help and reach out to my doctor for treatment, but I can't. I need help but I'm too scared to say anything about it. I'm terrified of speaking. How will I be able to help myself, if I won't tell anyone about it??

[DeanPhillips]

Hi there!

Well you've made a good start on here! We are all in the same boat and there's no judgement so just get it off your chest.

I suffer from anxiety and depression relating to ptsd from when one of my kids was seriously ill.

I just went to the docs a while ago and poured my heart out, told them everything and they really helped!

If it helps maybe write it all down and go to the docs for them to read it

[Shutterfly]

I know it's scary to talk about at first but when you start talking to someone who understands or can help you. It will weighing on you just a little bit less. I first dealt with anxiety and depression when I was 13. I was able to get help from a school social worker as well as a school division Therapist. If you are more comfortable with your doctor though talk to him or her.

[Meeasy]

This is a good start. Just letting it out helps.

Like you, I don't want to tell my doctor cause I know he will put me on meds. I want to try to avoid meds so I'm trying all I can do on my own and getting good results. Here are some of my tools

-Excercise is a great anti depressant. It releases good brain chemicals. Just get the blood flowing even if it's just climbing a few flights of stairs. It's positive.

-try to avoid sugar and caffeine which are fuel for anxiety

-Stay connected and find places and people you can share your feeling. Find likeminded people Forums, Meetup.com, recovery etc. Church groups if that works for you. Use your phone. Just don't isolate....

- stop obsessing about yourself and problems. Volunteering and helping or encouraging others is a tool.

-Write it down. Keep a journal. Be honest with yourself first. Dig deep.

-find things to be grateful for. Keep working a gratitude list to stay positive.

-meditation and positive affirmation. Use podcasts and YouTube videos for guided meditations and affirmations. There are also podcasts on all sorts of psychological issues Use the search bar

- go to a therapist or find one online. I know the can be cost prohibitive but look into options Even online or by phone. Insurance coverage ?

- consider 12 step recovery groups Even if you dont have addictions There are meetings for emotions, codependency, adult children of disfunctional families etc Many have face to face and telephone meeting where u can share annomously. Google 12 step recovery group list

-Get on meds if nothing else works but it would be a pity not to try.

Good luck