Depression / Question
Published: November 12, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Hey, Lately I've been feeling really depressed. I don't have a lot of friends because I'm so shy. I'm really self-conscious, so I don't like to go out very much. There's all these girls wearing skirts and tank tops, and I get so jealous, because I don't like my body, which makes me angrier. I have sort of a "moustache " too, and I'm trying so hard to get rid of it, because it's so embarrassing, but I don't know what else to do. I don't want to go get it done professionally, and I've tried waxes and depilatories and bleaches, but none of them seem to work, maybe I'm just not using them right. I've even thought about killing myself, I cry a lot too, but I don't talk to my parents about this "depression" thing.
Signed: Anonymous - Even Thought About Killing Myself
Dear Anonymous - Even Thought About Killing Myself,
TeenHealthFX is worried that you are having a lot of difficulty in your life but seem to have isolated yourself in terms of getting help. The "depression thing" needs to be addressed right away especially since you are having thoughts of suicide. You need to let yours parents or an adult you trust, know exactly how you have been feeling so that they can see you are in distress and need help. Suffering in silence or trying to do things on your own will only leave you miserable. There are many therapists who specialize in adolescent issues and can help you with your emotions, your negative body image and your shyness. A therapist can also refer you to a psychiatrist for an evaluation to see if your depression would be helped by a trial of medication.
The most important issue for you to realize that there are solutions to your problems and all you need to do is ask for help. Life is not always easy but it does not have to be this hard either.
If you get to the point that you are seriously considering suicide or are afraid of your impulses then you need to seek help immediately. You can call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room. In northern New Jersey you can also call the crisis hotline from Morristown Memorial hospital at 973-540-0100. Outside this area call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline, 1-800-999-9999, 24 hours, 7 days a week
If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 973-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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