How do i tell my family and friends I think I have depression?

Rye_ · ‎12-07-2023

The past few months or so I have been struggling with my mental health and for the past week it has gotten really bad- I decided to read up on it and I think I may have depression (I’ve taken the K10 test and I relate to every one of the basic symptoms) i know I shouldn’t self diagnose anything and that it could all just be a coincidence but I have a gut feeling that it isn’t. The problem is, my family can be very judgmental especially when It comes to mental health. How do i reach out for help if I know they won’t believe me? Not to mention i have been to around 6/7 different therapy sessions before across two different therapists and none of them helped even a bit. I’m so lost and I don’t know what to do or if it’s even worth seeking professional help because it might not even work. How do i reach out for help and is it worth it if it means getting in trouble with my parents?

white knight · ‎13-07-2023

Hi, welcome

Thankyou for posting this important topic. You havent mentioned your age and that is important to my answer. Eg under 18 and you really need your parents support in the process of seeking further mental health treatment.

Nevertheless, I think it is important to know that most of if not all your friends dont have a need to know unless it effects the friendship. So, until you are going to go out for the night as a group and you let them down too many times it could be time to reveal to your closest friends of your battle with depression. I've written an article about this very problem and it would be great if you read just the first page-

https://forums.beyondblue.org.au/t5/relationship-and-family-issues/they-just-wont-understand-why/td-...

So, you see it is far different than holding a physical injury, a mental illness is invisible so it isnt understood.

The other concern I have is lack of an official diagnosis. Eg In 2004 I was diagnosed with ADHD. I too had all the symptoms. Yet after 6 years of taking that medication to that illness I was re-diagnosed with bipolar. The manic in both illnesses were very similar. On the correct meds and I was far better in my behaviour and tolerance. So it is worth the risk to ask your parents if you can 1/ visit your GP for an initial assessment and interview and 2/ to attend a professional to diagnose you.

Finally, bare in mind that teenage years are often filled with mental and physical growth changes which can make you feel like you have depression but could be temporary symptoms to do with the transition to adulthood.

I want to thank you for posting this. There is amny teenagers or young adults that will read this post and be guided my a person like myself with lived experience and they might be swayed to seek the help they need so well dont.

TonyWK

Sialani · ‎13-07-2023

I'm so sorry to hear that you have been struggling and feeling the way you have, I can't even imagine how it must feel to feel afraid to speak up and have the support of your parents knowing they may not love or support you in the way you need. You didn't mention your age which is fine, and I feel really concerned for you that you may have to struggle alone like this. Something i personally struggled with as a teenager was also similar feeling but please know that there are people out there who you can't trust and will understand you and how you are feeling. Who can help you with your parents and with any type of concern or struggle you may have telling them about how you are feeling. I found reaching out to my doctor in private about my concerns helped and he was very helpful and understanding. Also reaching out to your local mental health unit asking to speak with someone about how you feel and wanting to be assisted with help moving forward is also something they may be of use or help to you. I know there are plenty of resources online but actually having someone who can be there in person and know and understand and support you is what needs to happen for you. Do you feel you could reach out to these places alone? Do you have anyone of an adult who would help or support you in doing these things that you trust and know understands mental health? If there is anything i could help or you would like to talk about i am here to help listen or support the best way i can.

adasmith · ‎13-07-2023

Opening up about your feelings and sharing that you think you may be experiencing depression can be a difficult but important step. Choose a time when you feel comfortable and find a quiet, private space. Be honest and straightforward, expressing your concerns and emotions. Let your loved ones know that you would appreciate their support and understanding during this challenging time. Consider suggesting that they educate themselves about depression to better understand what you're going through. Mental health therapists provide professional support and guidance to individuals, helping them navigate and improve their mental well-being.