Help with depression
Hi everyone,
I’ve been depressed for at least three months now, maybe longer. I honestly thought that someone would notice (I’m 16 and live with my family). No one has.
I spend all my time in my room, sleeping or doomscrolling. I can go days without eating and I’m losing weight. I have so much school and work to do, and it’s stressing me out, and that stress makes me retreat even more. I don’t want to tell anyone. But I just feel so sad all the time. I’m able to put on a show for my friends and coworkers, but it’s not real. I don’t want to go anywhere, ever, and would rather just stay home and do absolutely nothing.
I don’t know what to do.
@optimisticEyes6853
Please take a chance and tell someone you trust in your family. They may be just respecting your space. Please don't withdraw further, it's only by finding someone to open up to and letting yourself be loved by someone that you can start to break out of that feeling.
Many hugs.
@optimisticEyes6853
It’s clear that you’re going through a really challenging time, and it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed. Your feelings of sadness and isolation are significant, and it’s important to acknowledge just how heavy they can be.
You mentioned spending a lot of time in your room, which can feel safe but also amplify feelings of loneliness. When we isolate ourselves, it can be harder to see the light at the end of the tunnel. While it might feel easier to stay in that space, consider gently challenging yourself to step outside your comfort zone, even for a moment each day. This could be as simple as sitting outside for a few minutes or taking a short walk.
It’s also concerning to hear about your eating habits and the weight loss you’re experiencing. Nutrition is a key part of emotional well-being, so trying to find small, manageable ways to nourish yourself could be a valuable step. Even keeping simple snacks nearby or setting reminders to eat can make a difference, even if your appetite isn’t there.
You expressed that you feel like you’re putting on a show for your friends and coworkers. That can be exhausting and can leave you feeling even more disconnected. It’s perfectly okay to not have it all figured out and to express that you’re struggling, even if it’s just to one trusted person. Sharing your truth can lighten that emotional load, and you might find that others have had similar experiences.
Regarding the stress of school and work, it might help to break tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. Setting small goals for each day can reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. Celebrate even the smallest achievements; they all add up and can create a sense of progress.
Lastly, I want to emphasize that you’re not alone in this. Many people experience similar feelings, especially during difficult times. Allowing yourself to feel what you’re feeling is a vital part of healing. You are showing strength by reaching out and sharing your experience, and that’s an important step.
As you navigate through these feelings, remember to be kind to yourself. It’s okay to take things one day at a time, and with each step, you’re moving toward a brighter future. You deserve support and understanding as you work through this.