Am I depressed?

[Sammmmmmm123]

For the past 3 years I've had some depressive symptoms but I don't know if I actually have it. Those symptoms are:

1) It's hard to get out of bed in the morning
(because I dread school, I have undiagnosed S.A.D. and I'm always at the library by myself because of this crippling social phobia)

2) I cry sometimes at night

3) Sometimes I'd want to be dead for a day to see if anyone really cares

4) I get angry/fustrated over small things sometimes (apparently that's a symptom of depression)

5) Feeling demotivated at school

6) I'm kept awake at night thinking of why I'm the way I am and other stuff

But also I still get enjoyment from music and video games. And my weight is normal, I think.

Also am I doomed to be homeless if I make it to 18 because I'll be too socially anxious to get a job? Because I'm 15, and my S.A.D. has only been getting worse. The future doesn't look too bright, even though my grades are pretty good. :c

[Christa1]

Hi Sam

My heart goes out to you and I am sorry that you are finding things a struggle.

I would really strongly encourage you to have a talk to your GP as well as Headspace or to the people you can call on this site. Three years is a long time to manage on your own and there's lots of help available out there.

I would also encourage you not to worry about what will happen when you're 18. There is a lot of time between then & now and a lot can change in that time. You will change in that time.

Do you have family support?

When you think about why you are the way you are, do you include all the good stuff? Sometimes when we get thinking about our struggles we can get stuck focusing on only our difficulties and forget about all the great things about ourselves. Our struggles are not the sum total of who we are. Why don't you write a list of the things you like about yourself & the things that make you uniquely you? You could start with those good grades.

Please contact someone who can help you further & please keep talking on here if you find it helpful.

Christa.

[Jojo100]

Hi Sam

Welcome to BB. Christa has given some good advice. Is there a teacher or school counsellor you would feel comfortable talking to as that could be of benefit. You can also ring the Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) which is a free counselling service that runs 24/7. Stay strong and try and live one day at a time rather than worry too much about the future.

Hope this helps. Take care of yourself

Jojo