Fear of having depression

[Jillian_T]

Hi this is my first time doing anything like this. so.

So my fear was and still is having depression. I know its really stupid but I can't help it. It all started when my cousin told my mum I had depression, luckily my mum isn't stupid and she asked me if I did. I said no. But now I've been thinking about it more and more, my anxiety doesn't help, and I have recently been searching how to know if you have depression and its scaring me because I don't have the strength or courage to ask my mum for help. I don't understand why I'm so worried, I used to been in control of my anxiety but now this topic is starting to bring it back.

I don't understand and I'm seeking help.

[Sophie_M]

Hi Jillian T,

Welcome to the forums. You've come to a safe and non-judgmental place where users give and receive support based on their own experiences with mental health, many of which will have similarities to yours. We want you to know we're here to provide as much support, advice and conversation as you need.

If you would like to talk to a qualified mental health professional, we'd encourage you to reach out to yout GP or our support service any time day or night on 1300 22 4636. You can also email them (replies within 24 hours) or webchat to them from 3pm to midnight AEST via https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/get-immediate-support

Please check in and let us know how you're getting on whenever you feel up to it.

[Emmen]

Hello Jillian,

Welcome to the forums.

From personal experience, searching the internet to self-diagnose on depression (or any illness, for that matter) is probably the worst thing we could do since it feeds into our anxieties. Perhaps you could ask yourself why you think you have depression. Anxiety makes is worry excessively about things even if we don't have any/enough evidence to believe in that outcome. By asking yourself this and making a list, you may be able to get a sense of your own thought process and see if you have real grounds for the anxious feelings.

To cope with anxiety, I use mindfulness apps (e.g. Smiling Mind or Stop, Breathe & Think). It helps calm me down. If you could, try giving this a shot and then moving on to the listing task I suggested earlier.

In the meantime, if the anxiety is out of control, you can try the Beyond Blue Support Service that Sophie_M suggested, or Lifeline at 13 11 14.

Let us know how you go.

Take care,
M

[Jillian_T]

Thank you so much. I will try out what you have suggested.

[Aaronsis]

Hi Jillian T

I am so proud you have reached out and there have been some wonderful posts of support to you.

I just wanted to add something and that is that there is nothing to be scared of, ill mental health is an illness and like a broken bone, with treatment and support you can and will get through this time. If you can channel that fear into strength to face this "what if's" with bravery and say "it is ok if I have depression as I will ask for help". It takes courage and strength and I think you have this. You also have a wonderful mother who will be apart of your team too.

I also wanted to say that there is a checklist here if you wanted to do it to help with some direction if you feel you may be struggling, it could also be helpful to start a conversation with your mum or a GP.

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/anxiety-and-depression-checklist-k10

Once again, don't be fearful of the outcome, use it to gain knowledge and use it to ask for help.

I am proud you are seeking help, that is a great start Jillian T and we are here for you too.

Hugs

Sarah