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.
Let me preface by saying that I know that seeking out a counselor and/or psychiatrist couldn't hurt, regardless of if I have an illness or not. The reason I'm cautious and seeking advice on DS is because I'm not sure if my depression is really that bad. And, if it isn't that bad I don't want to my mom see the insurance statement and ask me why I went (I'm 22, but still on her insurance).
The reason I'm confused about whether or not I have a depression or not is because I don't feel empty all the time, and there are times everyday I feel good about life. Also, I've never been suicidal or harmed myself (besides excessive nail biting and some picking at acne scabs).
The reasons I think I may have depression is because I'm very emotional, I get quickly angered and irritated (especially by the people close with me), and I have a lack of motivation to do things like exercise, answer my phone, or do any homework before the last possible minute. I get really serious a lot of times, and view the world both cynically and realistically. I have low-self esteem and am constantly working on trying to not assume people don't like me.
My whole life I've had ups and downs. Looking back on old journals I was constantly writing about sadness and heartache. Today, I smoke too much pot and I sometimes feel anxious in social settings... like I can't look people in the eye. A lot of my relationships have ended poorly, and I think a huge part of it is I don't make the effort to stay close with people. I also drink to excess when I do drink... and have done some horrible stuff under the influence.
My dad has a history of depression, but is very secretive about it. Which brings me back to being scared to tell my mom... she has a lot of negative emotions towards my father and considers herself "very happy". I feel like I might feel like a disappointment if I'm diagnosed... because it will prove to my mom (who actually is very supportive of me) that I am like my father.
Any advice or input would help. I don't know if what I described sounds like a depressive disorder or not. I know its sort of vague, but really, any input would mean a lot to me. I feel lost at the moment.
The reason I'm confused about whether or not I have a depression or not is because I don't feel empty all the time, and there are times everyday I feel good about life. Also, I've never been suicidal or harmed myself (besides excessive nail biting and some picking at acne scabs).
The reasons I think I may have depression is because I'm very emotional, I get quickly angered and irritated (especially by the people close with me), and I have a lack of motivation to do things like exercise, answer my phone, or do any homework before the last possible minute. I get really serious a lot of times, and view the world both cynically and realistically. I have low-self esteem and am constantly working on trying to not assume people don't like me.
My whole life I've had ups and downs. Looking back on old journals I was constantly writing about sadness and heartache. Today, I smoke too much pot and I sometimes feel anxious in social settings... like I can't look people in the eye. A lot of my relationships have ended poorly, and I think a huge part of it is I don't make the effort to stay close with people. I also drink to excess when I do drink... and have done some horrible stuff under the influence.
My dad has a history of depression, but is very secretive about it. Which brings me back to being scared to tell my mom... she has a lot of negative emotions towards my father and considers herself "very happy". I feel like I might feel like a disappointment if I'm diagnosed... because it will prove to my mom (who actually is very supportive of me) that I am like my father.
Any advice or input would help. I don't know if what I described sounds like a depressive disorder or not. I know its sort of vague, but really, any input would mean a lot to me. I feel lost at the moment.
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Do you think anxiety is genetic or comes from your environment? What are your thoughts?
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Many of you know Mr K told me to "shut your mouth" in March 2025 when we took a road trip to Alpena Michigan. Since that time, we have had lots of ups and downs but I have never intentionally hurt Mr K in anyway. And when we first started dating in 2024 he let me know, although he is an engineer by degree, he has an extremely low EQ. Overall, he is ok (not off the charts nice like other guys in...
If you've been feeling like this for that long though it's probably worth seeing a doctor or therapist about it. The sooner you start getting treatment for depression, the sooner you'll start feeling better.
If you do seek out help, that would actually prove you are different than your dad as you are not secretive about it. If your mom is very supportive of you then why do you think she wouldn't be supportive of you now? You are not your father and her relationship to you is different than her relationship to your father. Don't let that stop you from getting help. I hope you find the strength in you to make this decision. Let us know if you do. Good luck!