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.
What are your specific fears and doubts about the future? 19 can be scary. The world seems big and us small at that age. I know what it's like to doubt if I'll make it. It's priceless to be in supportive community and have encouraging friends right now. It’s key to have people who can be your support and model what it looks like to get along with meaning day by day when it seems to have disappeared from your life.
Even if you’re not religious I encourage you to go to a church that you think you might feel comfortable at and talk to the pastor for free. Make sure it’s confidential, but he/she might be able to get you an older person who is living how you want your life to be one day and who can mentor you and be your “sponsor” friend and support. That would be huge and it's pretty easy to get set up. It just requires a little persistence. You can just start by Googling churches in your area and calling around anonymously.
Also, if your parents work the chances are nearly 100% that their job benefits cover counselors (same is true if you're in college). It can be hard to let parents know you want to see a counselor because they’ll undoubtedly question you, but just tell them that you want to learn some communication and coping skills for when things get stressful. That you’ve heard that counselors are basically just teachers and you’d like to learn some new ways of thinking and finding success when stuff gets overwhelming. A counselor can help you chart a path. Plus, through mental health benefits it’s super cheap. Also, Google DBT and CBT. They’re types of counseling techniques with tons of info online.
If you want to PM me I’ll try to help you. I understand what you’re going through and the brainfog can be blinding. There’s a way out. Find some beautiful pictures online right now and take a mini-vacation. I like searching Indeed.com jobs boards just to see all the places and opportunities. I’d also encourage you to start an art or portfolio of some sort (job, “future visions,” role models, healthy self articles, etc. – Pinterest.com is great for dreaming). Again, PM me. I’d like to get to know you.