Do I need to tell people that I'm depressed?

Seeking support is never looked down upon. Sometimes you need to explain to friends and family that your sadness may not be directly their fault, but is something you struggle with on your own. Sometimes just knowing that someone understands you and your situation is therapeutic in itself. Keeping your struggle a secret can make you feel worse, but it's also important that you choose to speak when it's right for you. Don't feel pressured to speak to friends, family, or doctors until you are ready to do so.

Everyone has different reactions and different needs. Some may feel better announcing their feelings while others don't like it being spread around. If you're in the middle then the answer is no. You should only 'need' to tell someone something if that makes you feel better. It's not an airborne disease, they won't catch it. So, if you don't feel comfortable with someone knowing, you don't have to tell them. It does help to talk to someone but you should never do so if you feel forced. It will never help you if you feel like you 'have' to do something. It only helps when you are aware that giving out this knowledge will be to your benefit. There is also the fact that some people might not react the way you may hope they will. People are not predictable. You may get those that will just listen, you may get someone who decides to give advice. If you know that person well then you should have some idea of how they will react. Again, the simple answer is no. You do not have to tell anyone you are depressed if you truly don't want to.

As difficult as it is, it is important for the people closest to you to know about the difficult time you are going through. This will help them understand why you may not be acting as yourself and they will be able to provide the resources available to help make the struggle easier. However, you do not have to feel compelled to tell people other than family unless you would like to.

Yes. It can be hard but it will help you. You're health mentally and physically can be improved just by letting someone know, because they may be able to help or know of a professional who can.

No, you don't need to tell anyone you're depressed. Only tell people if you really think they should know.

It's something you can do, but it's not mandatory. It's something personal that you may not wish to tell everyone. In the end, it's your choice to make.

That is purely up to you. If you feel it will help you or if you feel it's important to let certain people know then that's your choice but if you feel that you don't want to or need to tell anybody then that's also your choice. Do whatever you feel most comftable with. However, it's always good to speak to a GP as they will be able to help.

It's better to do so then keep everything inside. Telling someone means that you can start to get the help you need.

Yes. One of the best things you can do for depression is to have a strong social support system and that includes being honest with them.

If it makes your life easier, then yes, you can tell them about the depression. But if it makes things worse for you and they don't understand, then you have no obligation toward them. Depression is not at all easy, and some find it hard to understand. I hope you feel better very soon. Take care! :))