[erikank]

I've been feeling depressed for about a month now. I've never been depressed before so I don't know what to do or who to go to for help. Today has been worse than ever. I skipped 2 of my classes to go home and sleep. I can't bring myself to do my homework i've just been sitting in bed. I know my school has counseling services but I don't know how to ask for help. I don't know what to say to them. I don't like talking about my feelings and I don't trust people easily. How do I tell them that I'm tired of feeling this way and that I can't go on living if it's always going to be like this? I just don't know what to say or how to say it.

[Rohag]

Hello & Welcome, Erikank. Talking to people about these things isn't always easy. You could go to the counseling center or make an appointment with a medical doctor and simply tell them, "Something's wrong. Here are my symptoms and I've been experiencing them for x weeks/months." The possibility exists the depression is accompanying some other problem, too. Seeing a doctor would be optimal.

[Fuzzybear]

[Frankbtl]

Hi, first of all really well done in wanting to reach out for their help! You've already taken a big step! But there's no set formula to start the ball rolling, just tell them exactly how it is for YOU because that's the most important thing. Write everything that's bothering you down if it helps and then read it off when you get there.
Try not to see it as a "them" and "me" situation, they're there to help and work WITH you towards easing your situation.
And remember they should be sensitive, empathetic and non-judgmental too. And if you get "stuck" expressing your feelings they'll be there to make you feel more at ease and gently guide you in relating what you need to.
Best wishes
Alison

Hi there. I'm really glad that you were able to recognize it and are planning on getting help. At my school the first meeting is always an intake meeting so all you need to do is walk up to the desk and say it's your first time and you would like to meet with someone. They should guide you through the rest of it.

The most important part is that when you actually start talking with them, to be as truthful as possible. They are there to help you and it's all confidential so I guess try to think of it as trusting a professional to read through what you're saying to figure out some of your issues and help you reach good ways of coping. Start talking in whatever way is most comfortable for you. Perhaps start at the very beginning of when you think the symptoms started to appear, or whatever is troubling you currently.

Good luck and let us know how it goes!