[shrinkingviolet88]

Hi guys.
I’ve been feeling very down for about the past year and I feel like I have nowhere to turn. As I am quite an extroverted person with a seemingly great life, I’m scared people won’t take me seriously if I talk to them about it, especially my friends. I’m also worried people will think I’m attention-seeking. I suffered with anxiety a couple of years ago and actually ended up seeing a therapist and found that when I talked to people about it they had a hard time understanding or just said something like “everyone has ups and downs”. Also, I live very far away from my family at the moment and I would not want to scare them especially with me being so far away. I also don’t want them to be upset or think it’s their fault.
I’ve been having some suicidal thoughts which are scary and unsettling as they happen many times a week. I often feel tired, run down and just absolutely lifeless. Recently I haven’t felt very comfortable with leaving my bed (I’m a full time student, so do not work), which actually often makes me feel worse as I haven’t done anything with my day.
I guess I just really wanted to reach out to someone as I’ve truly been feeling dreadful. Any advice or words of support, I’d be so grateful for.
Thanks guys.

[Rohag]

Hello & Welcome, Shrinkingviolet88.

My experience is that although some people will be supportive of someone discussing mental health issues, many will not. Consequently in my own case I share that knowledge on a strict need-to-know basis.

Your symptoms could indicate anxiety and/or depression. Nevertheless, it would be valuable to rule out other possible physical causes. Does your situation permit seeing a medical doctor and having a full medical workup that doesn't presume the existence of mental health issues?

Please make yourself at home here.

[Sunflower123]

If the medical work up is good, what about seeing a therapist or a psychiatrist who might give you medication to give you some relief? Welcome...you'll find lots of support on this forum. If you get into a crisis with your depression you can text 741 741 and type hello for a crisis counselor. They are helpful but not intrusive.

[Fuzzybear]

Welcome to pc shrinkingviolet88

[Little Jay]

I totally get how you feel - to the rest of the world I have a great life and that makes it hard for people to understand, especially when they feel that you are "better off" than they are. But mental illness can effect anybody no matter what their life is like, even celebrities and millionaires.

Reaching out here was a great step though, and everyone here are extremely caring and supportive.

Hello shrinkingviolet88, welcome to PC! I hope you find your time here to be of benefit.

I agree with the above posters who mentioned ruling out any medical causes for your symptoms first. If you are physically healthy, a therapist and/or psychiatrist would be able to help with your concerns. I wish you all the best!