[odd_subtle_flirt]

I've been feeling really depressed lately, and I've shown a lot of the symptoms for teen depression. So I decided to take an online self-test. It said I probablby have severe depression and take a test immeadiatly. It couldn't be right, could it? I took several more online self-tests... They all said the very same thing.
I know I should probably get help as soon as possible, and help would be wonderful... It's just... I'm afraid. I'm afraid that I'll be judged, over-reacting about the situation if there's nothing to worry about, or being sent to a psychotic ward (biggest fear, right there).
One of my friends is going to the school counselor tomorrow about it. (Yes, I'm too much of a scaredy-cat to even go to the counselor by myself.) I'll probably get called in and questioned, or... Something. I don't know.
I'm really scared.

[Kaitlyn]

First of all I doubt you'll be sent to the psychotic ward (that would only happen if you were in immediate danger of hurting yourself) . I wouldn't put too much weight on the online self-tests.... they're not meant as an official diagnosis (only a doctor or psychiatrist can do diagnose depression).

The school counselor will probably want to talk to you about how you're feeling...if you're thinking about harming yourself. Standard procedure. I've been through it before. Counselors are there to help people.....there's nothing to be afraid of. They're there to keep you safe.

I had depression as a teen and when it was picked up on I wasn't sent to the psychotic ward. I ended up seeing a counselor instead. I guarantee that you won't be judged or told that you're over-reacting--- counselors don't do that. They listen and will help you work through things.

Feel free to PM me anytime you need someone to talk to.

Kait

[Knitnut]

Denial is not uncommon. Actually, it is probably more common than not. There is NOTHING to fear in having depression. Most depression is short term and can be greatly relieved with anti-depressant.

If the tests say that you probably are experiencing depression, what then do you do with this information?

There is the big question!

I assume you are a teenager in high school? If so,,,

• do you have a school counselor you can talk with?
• can you approach your parents with this information and that you need help?

[justfloating]

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!

Hi there,

I'm glad you are going to your school counsellor tomorrow to talk about this. It's very important to seek help for all concerns - physical or mental. You wouldn't leave a broken leg alone without getting it fixed, would you? Same goes with mental illness.

It's perfectly normal to be scared about this...most people are at first. But you can get the help that you deserve. Most counsellors are very understanding people, they'll know what to ask and what to talk about.

Please keep us updated on how you're doing. Best of luck to you!

The only way you get put in the hospital is if "you are a danger to yourself or to others", so don't talk about killing yourself or other people--unless that's how you feel. I took those tests and they say the same about me. I knew it anyway.

Nothing to fear but not getting some help with your depression now.
I wish you well on your journey-the counselor will help you to the right resources-theo It's okay--(((Hugs)))

[SWA 1971]

First of all, please don't refer to a psych. hospital as the psychotic ward. I'm sorry, but I find that offensive. Secondly, don't be afraid to get help or to go to the hospital. (May trigger) I very recently spent 2 1/2 days & 3 nights in a psych. hospital because I was suicidal & had plans. I went voluntarily, & it really helped. I was in therapy from Dec. 2007-Aug. 2009 for anorexia & OCD, too.