Last resort

[NXTG]

I’m 17 years old and I’m pretty sure I’m depressed. I tried to get to a doctor but my dads reaction was that I didn’t need a doctor. So this is my last resort?

[MrsMcRed]

definitely not... try talking to him and let him know how u feel exactly. my mom was denying that i had mental health problems too for a while. it took her a while but she’s very supportive now.

[NXTG in reply to MrsMcRed]

He won’t be supportive of me I know he won’t

[Sam_Walker]

Hey, I’m sorry your dad doesn’t believe you. I think it’s hard for people to believe their kids are sick because they care too much and don’t want to believe it, but especially because they can’t physically see the pain mental illnesses cause and might think you’re being dramatic (my mom did). This site is soooo helpful and supportive so it’s good you signed up. If your dad won’t help, you can try to call a helpline, talk to a school counselor or teacher (I know that can be weird, but I did and it helped), or a friend or even a friend’s parent. I really hope this helped, and get well soon!!

[Celtic27]

I'm sorry your dad has this attitude maybe he's from a time when you didn't talk about depression! Can you get to the doctor without your dad knowing?

[NXTG in reply to Celtic27]

Probably not I’m on his insurance

[Pagesofwords]

Can you talk to your mother about it or an aunt or grandmother? If you are in high school, perhaps you have a school nurse or guidance counselor who could help you. Are you able to keep up with your grades and school activities? Do you have a close friend who would be able to help you get support from an adult? In my town there is a youth program after school that has counselors in it. Would you have anything like that where you live? Another idea is a community mental health center, or if you are in a church, could you talk with your pastor?

I'm so sorry for how alone you must feel. Often, talking about feelings with a supportive friend or adult can help. I will pray for you and your dad, that your dad would be able to understand your needs. Things can look very hard at times and hopeless--but please believe me that things can and do get better. I have been living with depression for about 35 years now. It is possible to learn to cope in healthy ways. Medications can help. The perspective that comes through experience, education, and maturing into adulthood is so important. Remember, you are loved and your life is precious. I care about you!

[NXTG in reply to Pagesofwords]

I can keep up with my grades and activities really well actually it’s like a distraction, I don’t have any close friends, I haven’t checked for any community health centers, my school has a grieving program but that’s about it.

[Pagesofwords]

Hi, NXTG. I was just wondering how you're doing by now after a couple weeks have passed since you last wrote. Have you found someone to talk to? Whoever leads the grieving program might be able to help you find a safe place to express yourself and get support. Take care!

[Dudman]

Some father's can be of the old school where depression was never talked about so you must talk to someone. A teacher would know who you could see I am sure. You know best how you feel so please get help now not later xx