Depression Support Group

Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.

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erlope12 05/21/2020

Hi all, this is my first post here.

I've been suffering from depression and anxiety for about two years now, ever since I graduated from high school and entered college. It's been a highly stressful, confusing, and lonely time period for me, and I know a lot of college students struggle with similar feelings. A part of me believes that seeking professional help could be beneficial, but I fear how my family would view this, so I am generally afraid to bring it up to them. They seem to believe that the best way to combat depression and anxiety is to keep busy and distract myself with school and work. But, it's becoming more difficult to stay engaged and keep up with these things, due to how I am right now. Could anyone provide some advice about seeking help when the people in your life still seem to stigmatize and avoid conversations surrounding mental illness? Are there accessible, cost-effective resources I could pursue on my own?

Thanks all,

E.R.L.

Scaredandafraid 05/21/2020

Reach out to others here like you are. Many of us can help you gain some insight without pretending to be professionals. I understand having a family that doesn't see eye to eye with therapy. I didn't get therapy until last year and wish i wouldn't have waited. Between that and medication i have had night and day differences. Speak to your doctor about antidepressants or anxiety meds. Keeping your nose to the grindstone helps but all it does is suppress your problems and build up and come out later stronger and harder. I wish you the best of luck and don't hesitate to reach out

Secouya 05/21/2020

Hi Erlope, do you have insurance? If you are over the age of 18 you can see a therapist and it’s confidential. There are several resources. You can call the crisis line at 1-800-273-8255 in the US. If you are outside the US or still in your teen years there are phone numbers listing in the crisis tab at the top of this page. You do not need to be suicidal to call. You can talk to a counselor for free as long as you want and they can give you resources to fit your needs. You can also talk to your school counselor for help. Your health is more important then your parents stigma. Not only do people with mental illness talk to counselors, but counseling is for anyone facing problems in their life and it doesn’t necessarily mean you need meds. There is also a free app with chat rooms called 7 cups. I hope you will reach out for help. Best wishes.

Scott46 05/21/2020

First, I agree with the two answers above. Having spent many years in undergrad and grad school, I can appreciate how stressful it can get. And the classes don't get easier in junior and senior year. Two years out of HS means you are about 20. You are a legal adult and your medical situation is no one's business but yours, unless you choose to tell them. Its yours to keep private if you want. Times were different when your parents went to school so don't be chained by their societal views. Now, unless you attend a VERY small school, they will have counseling resources on campus. Student well being is a big deal. And more students have problems than you would think. You are certainly not alone out there. With the virus, you may have to meet with a counselor via some sort of Facechat but its a small inconvenience to get the help. There are also books about how to deal with stress in college or in general. Do some searches on amzn and see what you find. Good luck to you.

erlope12 05/21/2020

Thank you guys, all of this really helps. I will do my own research and seek out these resources you suggested.

sponge42 05/21/2020

Hi. The first step is acknowledging you need help and support! Congrats because it takes a brave and courageous person to do so. Talking with a counselor can help you tremendously. I have called 855-382-5433, they are free and very helpful with resources. Also, do you attend church? Having that support system provides support groups or possibly a friend that have been through something similar. I would also recommend praying and reading your scripture. Asking for healing, guidance, and focus during hard anxiety times has helped me, even if it is just for that day or hour. I pray that you get the support, love and relief you need.

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