What do I do?

I have been suffering from severe symptoms since I was in 8th grade. I am now a freshman in college. These symptoms include depression, manic episodes, anger episodes, suicidal thoughts all the time, sometimes hear voices, sometimes see things my friends swear are not really there. Only my friends see these symptoms I have because I know they will keep them a secret. Al of my friends have seen my craziness and worry about me. I don't have the symptoms 24/7 and keep to myself a lot when at home, so my parents really do not notice. I am afraid to tell them because they would worry a lot and they are super busy right now. I am afraid to keep it a secret because it is getting harder to hide. What do I do?

Hi Annie ~ If you're afraid to tell your parents, how about talking to the counselors at school? They are trained to handle things like this, and would be happy to talk to you. If it's something they can't handle, they will refer you to a professional. But it's all confidential, so you wouldn't have to worry about the counselors at school telling anyone. Give it a try!

Now, if you need to be referred out, you WOULD have to tell your parents because they'd have to be the ones paying for the therapist. Are you on your parents insurance? Chances are good that their insurance would pay for this, but you'd have to ask them about it. But first, just talk to the school counselor where it's free! Then take it from there.

God bless and please keep us posted, ok? Our prayers are with you. Hugs, Lee

Tell your parents. It is their obligation to help you get help for yourself.