Downhill spiral
Question
I feel really down all the time and I've started punching walls when I get depressed. I've tried talking to people but they just don't want to know.
Even my family don't want to talk to me and when I try they blank me out. I wish I could leave but I probably wouldn't be able to survive alone.
Answer
It sounds like you are going through a difficult time at the moment and it must be very upsetting to feel people aren't interested in how you've been feeling.
Depression can be a very debilitating and isolating experience. It sounds as though you are feeling very isolated at the moment but please be reassured, you do not have to go through this alone. It's good to hear you feel ready to talk about how you've been feeling, but it must be very hurtful when you try and open up to your family when they just seem to blank you.
Feeling very low can bring with it a number of emotions, including anger and frustration. Have you talked to your doctor (GP) about your feelings? If your depression keeps coming back you might want to consider getting a professional diagnosis. There are a number of ways of treating depression both with and without medication. Your doctor will be able to discuss the medical and talking treatment options available, such as antidepressants or cognitive behaviour therapy.
Your GP should also be able to refer you onto an appropriate counselling service or Youth Access have a search engine on their website which will allow you to search for a local service independently.
If you feel uncomfortable discussing any of this with your doctor, there are many organisations and support groups that can also help you through this difficult time.
Depression Alliance provides advice and support to those affected by depression. Their website is full of useful information, publications, access to a national network of self-help groups and a penfriend scheme.
Or maybe you would prefer talking to someone on the phone. Youth 2 Youth provide confidential, caring support and advice. If you would like to talk to someone about how you have been feeling, you can call them on 020 8896 3675. If you would prefer, they are also offer confidential support though online chat and by e-mail.
SANELINE is a national mental health helpline offering confidential emotional support and information to anyone experiencing mental health problems. They can give you the time and space to talk about how you are feeling, without judging you or telling you what to do. If you feel this could help, you could call them on 0845 767 8000.
Updated: 04/12/2007
Question answered by SANE
