I think I have depression

[Chris67]

For the last 7 months ive been experiencing depressive symptoms, for most days of the week my appetite has decreased I have been experiencing self deprecation, ive lost all will to do things in my life, my concentration has decreased, ive been hating myself, my mood has been more aggressive, ive been feeling hopeless and my sleep has been sporadic. Anyone have any idea on what I have?

[geoff]

Hello Chris67, and welcome to the forums.

We can only suggest from our own experience, as we're not qualified to say, only a doctor can do this, however, from what you have told us being sad for 7 months and having these symptoms, indicates, from a previous sufferer, that depression may be the cause, but within this period have you seen your doctor for their diagnosis.

We're pleased you have come to us, so a discussion with so many different people can reply back to you, because yes as you say I've been through exactly the same as what you have described.

Your doctor can suggest a 'mental health plan', which entitles you to 10 Medicare paid sessions with a psychologist or a psychiatrist, however, the latter might bulk bill, just as the former, depending on the situation.

If you want to get back to us and describe a little more of your situation that would be great, then we can talk so more.

Geoff.

[Chris67]

Hi Geoff,

Thank you for responding, no I havent seen a doctor yet im thinking of going to see a counselor at my school as i think it would be a great first course of action, I have talked to some friends and they think I have some sort of atypical depression but i am unsure, but luckily I am not suicidal. It isnt persistent it usually happens in phases lasting a few days or so and every new pahses feels worse than the last and my "demons" get stronger.

[mocha delight]

Hi chris67 I think I have depression to so about 2-3 months ago I typed up & printed out a list of symptoms/signs I was having which when the appointment with my gp arrived I handed it to her straight away before saying anything. Also it did not help things that at the time only a few days beforehand my grandma passed away. Anyways after she read the list of symptoms/signs I was having and talking she definitely believes I have depression. Only thing I regret is when she asked if I wanted to try just having antidepressants first or antidepressants & and seeing a psychologist that I did not go for the second option of seeing a psychologist as well as being on antidepressants. A few weeks after I started on the antidepressants my gp prescribed me something to help me sleep as I’ve been having problems sleeping again despite being diagnosed with sleep apnea and having a cpap machine.

[geoff]

Hi Chris, friends may notice a change in someone, and yes it could be from depression but it could be due to many other different circumstances, however, if it keeps happening and certainly becomes a problem, then it's best to see the counsellor at school or you could contact Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 by phone, online or webchat for 5 to 25 years old.

They are trained counsellors but dress in casual clothes, plus ReachOut and HeadSpace are other options.

Take care.

Geoff.

[Chris67]

every time that i "recover" my demons wait until im weakest to hit me down harder than before and it keeps repeating each time I fall im so afraid but all i can show is anger, I feel like noone cares about me im paranoid to tell people as im afraid they'll abandon me

[Chris67]

thanks for sharing, i'm sorry for your loss. Im on a cycle of hyposomnia and insomnia its unbearable to live with I want to get help as soon as i can but im uncomfortbale with talking on the phone and in person, so i'll try your method as ive never knew of it, thank you

[geoff]

Hello Chris, what Mocha delight has said is a good way to be able to talk with someone qualified because you can write down all the issues that you are confronting, then the doctor or psychologist can then browse through the notes and slowly ask the questions, but will do so in the appropriate manner, they won't do this until they have your confidence.

These demons may seem to be stronger only because there was a period when you felt OK, probably something you hadn't felt for quite a while and then to relapse could appear to you that you've fallen deeper.

I've found myself that having a relapse, is only temporary and within a couple of weeks I'm able to climb that ladder again, knowing that I have been able to overcome it before and can also do now.

Some people may struggle, but give yourself time and encouragement, your support is still there waiting to hear from you.

Geoff.

[mocha delight]

Hi Chris67 thanks for your reply I was nervous/anxious ect ect ect despite typing up and printing out a list of what I was thinking & feeling plus when I talked about the family history & how I have a cousin that is diagnosed with bipolar & depression the others I strongly suspect that I never even got to the other side of the family except for one person. But let me tell it was a huge relief that my gp agreed that it looks like I have depression plus like a big weight had been taken of my shoulders to and I believe you’ll get that to when you do get some help. And I know you don’t think no one cares as but we all do here and no one here will abandon you either.

[Chris67]

Additionally my sleep has been really sporadic, most times ive been waking up any times between 9-2am and going to bed at like 11am and some of my friends are saying i may have atypical depression. Whenever im not like that i cannot sleep at all then other days i cant stay up for more than 3 hours