I'm glad you've decided to get help. It took me a really long time to get up the nerve to seek help. I brought a friend to the doctor with me when I was diagnosed, and I hung onto her hand almost the whole time we were there. It's good to have moral support. If you want to have your friend with you when you see the counsellor, then that's fine. It'll give you the courage you need to be open about how you're feeling. If you're having a hard time expressing yourself, maybe you could write a few things down, either as notes to bring to your meeting or something for the counsellor to read rather than you verbally explaining what's going on. Sometimes it's easier to put our thoughts down on paper. Another thought is printing out the results of some of these online tests you took, and bringing them to show the counsellor as well.

Remember that depression is nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about. It's not a weakness or personality problem, and it's definitely not your fault! It's a valid medical condition that requires treatment the same way you'd need to get treatment for diabetes, or have a broken arm put into a cast. Also make sure that you see a doctor and get a proper physical exam. There are physical illnesses that can present with symptoms of depression, such as a thyroid problem. As for hospitalization, that's an extreme step that will only be taken if you are an immediate danger to yourself or others. The immediate steps taken will probably be to figure out what help is right for you. That usually involves seeing a doctor, and setting up a treatment plan (usually medication and/or therapy).

I also wanted to add that if you DO feel like you might be a danger to yourself, now or in the future, TELL SOMEONE IMMEDIATELY. Your parents, counsellor, doctor, a religious leader or someone else you trust, or call 911 or a suicide hotline. It's really scary, but the absolute worst part is taking that first step. There's a certain sense of liberation that comes with acknowledging and expressing to someone how you've been feeling, and knowing that there IS help out there. You're not alone. As my counsellor told me the first time we met, "You'd be amazed at how many staff and students at school are dealing with depression too."

I hope you keep us posted on how your meeting goes. Good luck!