At your age I was crushed by life as well. Yes, it is real and I do understand your suffering. As I look back I understand that I was a very sensitive and perceptive teen who was far too intelligent for my own good. Unfortunately I turned to drugs to silence my grief which made everything much worse.

I knew I would never live to see 18 but...somehow that happened. Then 21... Then my life took an amazing turn. I got help for my depression and my drug use. I did whatever the professionals told me to do, I made a conscious decision to have hope (even though I didn't believe in "hope" for someone like me.)

It worked. I've had an incredible life filled with success and love. I've always suffered from depression, it's never gone away but it was manageable for most of my years. Life has been well worth the effort it has taken to manage my depression. You are MORE than your depression.

It CAN get better. Find your champions who will help you. Believe it is possible to feel better and hang on to that hope. Be willing to do whatever it takes. Follow instructions. Don't do anything that will make it worse! There are people who do understand what you are going through and will help if you ask.

Take care my young friend. The world has not abandoned you. You are important and can make a difference, believe that! Let us know how your doing OK?!