If you are in college, most colleges have a counselling center that is meant expressly for helping students cope with depression, anxiety, and other issues that are common in college life. Unfortunately it seems that many students don't even know that this help is available.

So the first thing to do might be to see if your college has such a department. They can give you advice and point you on the right track towards a doctor and whatever other help you may need.

You can check with their privacy policy but please do not ultimately let fear of your parents finding out stop you from seeking treatment. Treatment is available and can really help. It is unfortunate that there is still so much misunderstanding and stigma in society that this fear is still an issue.

But so many people fear this or believe the misinformation that they won't even try to get treatment. You have already taken the first HUGE step toward recovery, and that is realizing that something is going on that you may need help with and having a desire to seek out the help you need. For many people that is the biggest hurdle to accept. Don't let fear of what your parents may think stop you from completing the path toward feeling better that you have already begun.

Check with the counselling service, your privacy may be legally protected so they may never have to know at all unless/until you feel ready at somepoint to tell them. In most cases privacy is strictly protected (hospitals aren't even allowed to confirm the names of patients if people call) but I'm not 100% sure if this extends to parents. However, being that you are not a minor, I would say chances are good that your privacy will be protected, and confirming that may relieve some of your fear and allow you to proceed with this.

If you don't have or can't find a counselling center at your college, look for a mental health department at one of your local hospitals.

If you are worried about the idea of getting started somewhere maybe your friend who you trust can accompany you to the office. He doesn't have to join you when you talk to the counsellor but having him with you on your trip to the office may help in the beginning, at least until you can establish some trust with the people who will be helping you.

Good luck.