Lately I've had a lot of stuff going on in my life with family, school, and other stresses. I've never felt so low in all my life. And still I have a wonderful boyfriend who's been supporting me through all of it. I used to have some pretty bad depression and I would get suicidal thoughts, sometimes come close to attempting it. Then, for years, it's gone away. But now, I don't know. I've never felt so strongly like I don't want to live. I don't want to commit suicide and I'm not going to, but I just don't want to go through life anymore. I don't know if I should tell my boyfriend this on top of everything else that he's supporting me with. I don't want to worry him, and I don't want him to freak out or get anyone else involved without my knowledge. (Like school counselors -- maybe regular counselors, but I can't stand the school ones.) Does anyone have any advice on whether I should tell him or not? Thanks in advance.
girlygirl answered Friday April 7 2006, 3:16 pm: Yes you should tell him! But you shouldn't make it so he can't seek other help for you. You're feeling so badly and you know you need help, but don't put that burden on him alone. Let him help you get more help. [ girlygirl's advice column | Ask girlygirl A Question ]
EarthMother answered Friday April 7 2006, 2:24 pm: Dear Depressed,
Feeling sad, blue, or a little down is something we all go through from time to time. Really, it's normal.
What you've described, however is a little more serious than that; not only should you tell your bf, but you should also seek help understanding what's going on with you.
You may not know, but depression is related to a chemical imbalance in the brain. (No, you're not crazy!)This chemical imbalance can be addressed, but you'll have to reach out for help.
I know there are places where you can get this kind of help, but you might have to do a little homework. Perhaps, googling for "teen hotlines," or "crisis hotlines" would be a start. These hotlines are there so that people needing to speak with someone can do so anonymously. These hotlines would also be able to give you the names & numbers of programs dedicated to helping young people with similiar issues. The point being, my friend, you are important and worth the time and energy it would take to find the answer! The help you need is out there, but you'll have to do your part and seek it out.
If you are too depressed to even do this much, please tell someone in addition to your bf. Maybe a favorite teacher, a parent of one of your good friends; hey, maybe even your mother or father, but you need to tell someone to get the ball rolling.
You could also call 411 and ask for the local "Information & Referral" agency in your area for suggestions of where to look. These I&R agencies complie directories of people, places, programs, etc. that provide all kinds of assistance, depending on what you are looking for.
I know there is someone in your area that could be of assistance to you as you sort out what is happening to you. You're worth it; giving up is NOT the solution! Check out your other options, they're out there.
You have yet to discover why it is that you're needed here; don't walk away from this challenge. Someday you'll understand why you had to go through this experience in order to come full circle. Decide to do this, you'll find the courage. Remember, it is NO mistake that you are here.
Take Care,
Earth Mother [ EarthMother's advice column | Ask EarthMother A Question ]
Kat_1989 answered Thursday April 6 2006, 11:03 pm: You should tell him, only if you trust him enough. An tell him you don't want anyone else involve make sure you clear on that part. An if he cares about you enough he will keep it to himself. [ Kat_1989's advice column | Ask Kat_1989 A Question ]
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