Am I depressed?

[fizzbuzzboing]

Hi, it's my first time on this site. I'm 17 years old and in 11th grade.

Recently I've been questioning the stability of my mental health. I'm tired, oversleep, have stopped eating properly, have cripplingly low self-esteem. I feel hopeless and sad all the time etc etc. I've done research and yeah, these seem to match up with the 'symptoms of depression'. My parents aren't really mental health advocates so getting clinically diagnosed isn't really an option.

I don't really know what to do.

[Hidden]

I think its great that ur here trying to help urself. Welcome...

Just a thought... if u have a school nurse maybe u can speak with them or a school psychologist. If ur in the U.S. u can try Catholic Charities... or there are always 1-800 help lines to talk with a mental health professional.

Plus.. everyone here is always willing to help.You might even find prior posts that may answer some questions for ya. I wish u the best in finding answers.

[NotAloneForever]

I developed my first bout of clinical depression in high school. I was self harming, abusing alcohol, and looking for self worth in all the wrong places. My parents were and still mostly are against therapy and any type of drug intervention. I am 32. I am only now going to get the help I need. Don’t wait as long as I did.

Not having your family to advocate for your mental health can be extremely difficult but you have options. If there is a teacher, counselor or another adult you can reach out to, start there. I also recommend searching support groups and therapy groups targeted towards young adults that meet in your area. Talking openly to other can help your sort out your feelings. Apps like Meetup can be a good resources to find people in your community that are also looking to connect with others.

Most importantly you don’t need to be diagnosed by a psychologist or psychiatrist, your general practitioner can be a great way to start with an initial diagnosis. Ask to make a regular appointment for a physical. Ask for a private moment with your doctor and discuss what you’re feeling.

I hope this helps.

[Dessertmouse58]

First thing you want to do is realize your better than you think., do you realize the whole fashion and makeup industry are super wealthy because we all have low self-esteem? I never walk out the house until I’ve showered to smell nice., which a good thing. I love feeling clean . I spend 1 hour, almost combing and styling my hair. I spend another 30 min putting on make up, almost every day. You’re not the only one who feels a little less perfect, because we see in magazines that the women there are almost above average in beauty. It doesn’t bother me that they are more beautiful than me. Why? Because I like me just the way I’m. I like my imperfections because it gives me something to work on. We can’t all be the same. It would be a boring world if we talked the same and sounded the same and acted the same. Appreciate who you are. There really is no perfect person. Each one of us has different lives and looks. You are you and I’m me. I love me and I love other people difference.

[ItratFatima100]

I need help

[Catwoman2018 in reply to ItratFatima100]

How can I help? If you can let me know what is wrong, I'll try.