I think I might be suffering from Teenage depression

[Buff Hooligans]

Based on the answers to those important diagnostic questions, (i.e. "sometimes" and "no"), I would say you do not have full blown clinical depression.
I am extremely personally plagued with bouts of Clinical Depression, so I feel I know enough to say that.

But you definitely should talk to your mom and a doctor.

 

[PineappleMama]

Quote:
Amen to THAT. Bluh. That's exactly why I mentioned that. Even 'normal' teen stuff can be awful enough to impact your health, school work, etc though so it's worth a chat... even if it is a bit embarassing. If you don't feel like talking to mom you can always talk to your school nurse, counselor, if that would make it a little better... those folks usually know a good bit about the ages they're around so they may be able to offer insight or at least an ear until you're more comfy with the subject and can take it to mom.

Again though, Brava for speaking out... so so many don't.

 

[gaited horse]

Thanks everyone for the answers I haven't figured out how I'm going to talk to my mom about it yet. Any ideas?

 

[PineappleMama]

You could start with asking if depression of any kind runs in the family...

If it does, then that alone could be enough for her to realize you're worried over it and get the convo moving.

That's a non-issue in our family, since everyone knows the bloodlines, but for some families it's not something that's talked about alot (either because no one has it, or has been diagnosed, or only one person ever did, or the fact that many still see D as a stigma)

You'll do fine, Moms love their kids... it's what we do...

 

[Sillystunt]

Some people suffer in the winter and light exposure totally helps! I t used to get me every year. I would first talk to your Mom! She loves you and is there for you to lean on( it's what us mom's do best!) Maybe then she can give you the direction she feels is best for you! Trust in her sweetie, she can help! And meds don't always help. they made me nuts and i had to get off them!!

 

[pixie74943]

The fact that you aren't thinking about suicide is extra comforting. My advice as a recent recoveree from pseudo depression, get a hobby.

I call it pseudo depression because I've been cranky, restless, listelss, angry, hopeless, etc. But after a fight with my mum and being taken to 2 psychologists, they agreed I wasnt depressed, just a moody hormonal 16year old. Now I'm a moody hormonal 18year old.

So, things that help..
1) you DONT want to get diagnosed, labelling hurts people with mental illnesses, makes people treat you differently, and ruins your self esteem. And drugs for mood disorders all have side effects and about 50/50 relapse rates.
2) talk to someone. It doesnt have to be family, someone who you trust, someone who can take you out and cheer you up.
3) GET A HOBBY!! I seriously can't stress this enough, the single greatest cure for me when I'm feeling down in the dumps is to do SOMETHING! TV, video games, books etc, DONT count! Something physical that gets the blood pumping and requires thinking about (Build another chicken pen, with that good friend/family member that you talked to)
4) Sleep Hygiene! Don't stay up late moping in the night. You need to get some sunlight and vitamin D, good for the bones, and good for the soul!
5) Get out of the house! Friends, Family, Movies.. Go grocery shopping and talk to the cashier. Depression gets worse without social interaction.

and finally, if you do all this, and still feel bad, DO seek medical help. While it's better to balance out your mood without any drugs, sometimes you'll need that kick start to help you out.

Good Luck! Personal Advice, things get better.

and if you're having a bad day, hug a chicken

 

[bargain]

Hi, I've read a lot of caring advice here from good BYC friends of yours......I want to encoiurage you to talk with Mom and/or a school counselor if you have one.....Years ago, I had a close friend who lost her son because of some serious depression issues the extent of which she was unaware and also assumed it was just the "growing up blues"

I don't know your Mother but I do know my friend thinks many times....every day of her life about her son and wishes she had known and could have helped/got needed help.

You are so nice to bring up the question, just print this page out and show mom if you cannot talk directly.....Or print part of it.....

Don't be afraid......Just Open the door for some help....

If you do, I do believe that there will be brighter moments in your future.

Take good care and I'm praying for your situation.

 

[redhen]

Aww! Tell your mom sweetie.

PM me if you need anything..

 

[arabookworm]

it could just be the stress of school work piling up and upcoming midterms/finals, and bad weather setting in that is making you a bit blah. but i'd talk to someone just in case.

 

[canada-goose]

Hey, it's normal to be gloomy sometimes!

I'm a teenager too so I know! Deep breath, force a grin onto your face and go visit the chickens!