[NightTear]

I'm 16 and a sophomore in high school. I think I've been suffering from depression or something similar for maybe a year now. Suicide has been an ever-present thought and the other day I decided that I'm tired of living like this. But I don't know how to get help. I'm going to see a school counseler but I don't know how much help that will be. I would talk to my parents but my father is very headstrong and I'm almost sure he would listen to me and my mom, who would be the most likely to believe me, wouldn't be able to get me help without the consent of my father. So I really don't know what to do. Up until now I've maintained the belief that I'll get my own help when I move out but I doubt I'll have the money and I need help now, not 2 or 3 years in the future. If anyone has any idea what I can do, I'd love to hear it because my friends at school are very little help.

[krzyk101]

You have taken the most difficult step of all, you have admited that you need help. I would say that your parents would be understanding if you express to them what you have here on the post. I know it is scary, but those are your parents and I am sure they love you, and at least they would be aware of what you are feeling. I agree with you that you need help now not years from know, if you cant talk to your parents in person, perhaps you could write a letter expressing your feelings as well as fears, and give it to the one you feel most comfortable with. I hope all goes well.

Take care

KrazyKris

Krazy Kris

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[dexter]

>>I'm going to see a school counseler but I don't know how much help that will be.

The school counselor may be a good starting point. He or she may be able to refer you to the help you need if they are not equipped to provide it themselves. So seeing a school counselor is a great idea. If they don't get you to what you need, keep trying!

I absolutely agree that the hardest step is realizing that you need help and seeking that help. Do whatever it takes to get the help you need and keep posting here. We've been there and we understand.

good luck and let us know how you are doing.

-- The world is what we make of it --
-- Dave
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[listener]

If you tell what you just said to your school councellor, they are bound by law to get you help. Being suicidal, or even just having repeated thoughts about it is very serious. I am not trying to scare you, but please ask for help. I have been there. I also know other kids your age who have been there. and have gotten got help by doing this.

It sounds like your parents may not be the best route. I say, go talk to the school councellor, if that doesn't work, try a school social worker, a nurse or find a help line/crisisline/walk-in councelling center. I don't know where you live and what resources are there. If all else fails call the hospital in your area, the emergency department be able to get you help. They may send an ambulence.. If you are in an emergency situation, don't hesitate. If you are able to, it may be better just to go to the nearest emergency room. They will take care of your parents. They will let your mother know that you need help and hopefully help your father accept that fact. If you seek out the help you need yourself, you are not putting your mother in a hard spot with your father. I've been there too.

You don't need to wait until it is critical to seek this kind of help. Depression is caused by a chemical action in your brain that isn't functioning properly. There are professionals who can help you with councelling and possibly medication. The sooner you get help in your life, the better. It doesn't have to be a lifelong problem.

I give you a lot of encouragement in that you have reached out here. Please take care of what you need. Your right, waiting 2-3 years is too long. Please don't worry about money when it's your life that is your concern. Depression is treatable. Many very high functioning and important people have had depression. It sounds like you are included with these.

I wish you the best. Pleease continue to seek help.
Listener