I'm right there with you. Believe me, I've given up more hope than I ever thought I could for the future. And I can tell you that even when your family is supporting you it is still difficult to see any light at the end of the tunnel. But if you can forget all that, for even just a moment, and focus on ONE THING, right now, letting your mind empty and reminding yourself that you wouldn't be asking for help if you weren't already strong enough to make it through this, then you're already winning this battle. One good thought about yourself, one good thought about how you've improved even if it's the smallest thing, one good truth about yourself you know will never change; it could be that you've always had a sensitive heart and even though it hurts a lot, it also holds a lot of beauty, more than others can understand, it's still beautiful and deeper than you can imagine. Just do ONE THING today, just one, to help yourself feel even a little bit better. Whatever it is (taking a walk, reading a chapter from your favorite book, thinking about the funniest memory or joke you know, or just breathing deeply for a few moments), just do that one thing. That's all. That one thing will lead to another one thing, and then to another. Take your time and don't rush. Before you know it, you'll notice that it really can be better. The world around you may seem the same, but you will get better, you will have changed your reaction to the difficulties you face. Perseverance isn't one long, grueling race...it's many short races strung together over time. Don't be overwhelmed by all your hopeless tomorrows, just be gentle with yourself today. Just do ONE THING, just one. And you'll be happy because you did it for yourself. You deserve your own love, your own kindness, especially in the small ways that don't seem to matter much to other people. You're getting there, just like I am...one thing at a time. We're okay, we're just a little lost right now. So let's give ourselves a break and take a small step, just one, and feel good about it even if no one notices. We notice, and that's what truly matters.

First, your story sounds familiar and I am very sorry you have to go through having a dysfunctional family on top of your own depression. If you are 18 or older you do not have to live with them, and you can keep your contact with them to a minimum, or not at all, as I slowly learned to do over the years. Are you on meds, and/or do you see a talk therapist? If not you can check yourself into any hospital and get help. You are what's most important. Many families are ashamed if someone is depressed or stressed out, because all they think about is themselves and that it "looks bad" if another family member needs help. If you are not yet 18, talk to a school counselor or nurse. I will pray for you. You matter.

Thats so unfair. When our own families work against us the depression only gets worse. I'm glad you reached out on DS. Thats a good sign that your taking care of yourself. You'll make it through this. Hang in there....