[katieranger]

hello all. im a 16 year old girl who had a rough childhood. i have been battling depression for about 6 months now without any medication or anything. now im starting to think im bipolar but i dont know. like one day im depressed (extremely) the next im happy. my dad i think was bipolar but i dont have contact with him anymore. what should i do?

[dontstopbelieving]

Hi Katie. I feel the same way. One day I'm feeling pretty good and the next I am completely down. I have not been to a doctor to talk about my issues, but I know something isn't right.

I'm trying to gather up the strength to talk to someone about everything I've been dealing with. Perhaps you could do the same? It's hard, but I know deep down the right thing to do is contact a professional. I just have to make myself do it.

Hugs and best wishes to you.

[Rohag]

Hello, Katieranger! If your situation permits, describe all your symptoms to a medical professional, including what you know of your father's illness. Six months is long enough; seek medical attention.

Please keep posting.

[Leed]

Hi ~ I agree with Rohag. Talk to your Mom. Tell her that you've been depressed for 6 months, and you need to talk to someone. DON'T let her tell you that it's just a "teenage" thing cause it's NOT. MAKE her listen. Ask her to take you to your doctor who can refer you to a good therapist.

I wish you the very best. Let us know what happens, ok? And keep posting. Hugs, Lee