[izabelle]

recently i have been getting really depressed a lot has happened to me and its not not all that great. i used to be this ball of sunshine now i just am not. i want it to go back to the way it was so i realize i need help from a doctor or something but i have no idea how to get that help. i do not no how to tell anyone how i feel especially my parents so how should i get help. anyone have any tips?

Hi.
It's important to reach out.
Recognizing that things are not quite the way they were is a a huge thing....

There's a resource tab on the home page with some information.

Share if you like....post more....ask questions.....

Welcome

[paynful]

I posted this on your new member intro, but it would probably be easier if it was all in one place...

"Courage isn't the absence of fear, but moving forward in the face of it." --some quote from I don't remember where

I'm glad you have reached out here. It is scary, but it is worth it.

The truth can hurt, but sometimes, a fake smile can hurt more. Your parents want you to be happy. However, if you can't talk to them, at least, you are talking to some one.

The way you describe being a bouncing ball of sunshine to being unable to smile... did something trigger it or has that ever happened before for no reason?

I only ask, because if there was a specific incident then therapy could help.

If it came out of no where, or has happened before, you might have to consider a Bipolar (manic-depressive) diagnosis.

There are seperate forums for depression versus bipolar. I'm sure either could help you, I just thought... the more specific to you the better.

[recentdiscovery]

I am assuming by your post you are young and on your parent's health insurance? If you can't confide in them is there someone at your school you could talk to like a counselor?

Why do you think you can't talk to your parents? That's important to know.

[Altered Moment]

I am assuming you are young too. How old are you?
One place to start is to try to identify your symptoms. What is different compared to your sunny self. Some of the symptoms of depression are:
Very low energy
Very low motivation
Sleep alot during the day
Have trouble sleeping at night
Low mood feeling sad, or empty, or numb
Low appetite
Lack of self care, don't shower, or shave, or brush your teeth

Google symptoms of depression.

I think it is important you tell your parents. Educate yourself a little first.