Swings and roundabouts
Question
My moods are really extreme, sometimes I'm really hyper and can't stop running about and talking, but then I switch, sometimes for no reason, to being really depressed. I'll stop going to school and feel no one even wants to know me.
I'm fed up of not being able to tell anyone how I feel because I don't want to worry them. Who can I talk to?
Answer
You're obviously dealing with a lot at the moment, therefore it's really positive that you've contacted us and are looking to talk to someone about what you're experiencing.
Such extreme changes in mood as you describe could be the result of anything from a medical condition (i.e. a condition affecting blood sugar levels) to stress. But it's also common for mood swings to be caused by changing hormones, and so they could be seen as a 'normal' part of adolescence. While this isn't necessarily comforting to know, try to remember you are not alone, and there are some things you could try to help you feel better.
It's important to look after yourself, it's worth trying to stick to a healthy diet, take moderate exercise, get enough sleep, avoid drugs and alcohol, and reduce stress in your life as much as possible.
Talking over what you are going through can also be really helpful. As you've found, it can often be difficult to talk to family and friends, therefore I wonder whether there is a counsellor at your school who you could speak to.
If not, there are other options. You could see your doctor (GP) and discuss the issues you've outlined here (don't forget that discussions with your doctor are confidential). They would also be able to rule out any medical condition possibly being the cause of your mood swings.
If you don't feel able to go to your doctor you could talk to someone at Samaritans on 08457 909090. They're available 24 hours a day, but it's not a free call (it's local rate) so it might show up on the phone bill. Alternatively, if you wanted to write rather than talk on the phone, you could email them at jo@samaritans.org.
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Question answered by bss
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