How do I tell my parents I think I’m depressed?

0

Long story short, I started cutting myself when I was about 12 or so years old, and the only people who knew/know about it besides myself is my two best friends. One of them threatened to tell my parents, the other still does his best to talk me through things and calm me down. I started having suicidal thoughts about a year ago, albeit never acting on them. Meanwhile, my parents have no idea about any of this, due to me not wanting to disappoint them, I guess.

Recently, one of my best friends who helps me through this all has been trying to get me to tell my parents about it, since I just relapsed again and he’s getting worried about me, *sigh*. The thing is, how would I even start that conversation? “Hey, Mom? I’m pretty sure I’m depressed.” ?? It makes me seem like I’m asking for attention, which I’m not. I want help, not pity or attention and ughgug. Both of my parents are busy with work and taxes and such and I don’t want them to have another burden. Also, I already have to go get checked out at the doctors for some thing and I don’t want it to seem like everything is wrong with me. uuughhh

Category: Tags: asked April 9, 2014

4 Answers

0
Maybe the best thing to do is just sit them down and explain your story from the beginning. Say that you were struggling a few years back and you thought you were getting better, but again you've been struggling. You've explained your whole story well on here, so just explain what you've said here to your parents! It's hard being depressed and it's even harder reaching out for help, but I think you can do it and I'm sure they will be glad you did!
0
Hi. I have a similar story and I have always had a hard time telling my parents when I relapse. Everyone is different but I always find things easier if I can write it down first and then give it to them. Often times I like to leave notes that I know they will find especially during times when I will be gone for a long time and they can have some time to think about it. Once you come back you can sit down and actually talk about the problem. If you want help I would recommend asking your parents to help you pick a psychologist, but going to your general doctor can always help and make suggestions. I hope you feel better soon, don't worry about telling your parents. They love you and they WANT you to come to them with your problems. They want to help their child no matter what.
0
Maybe try writing a letter? Sometimes we can process thoughts better via writing. Talking might be more stressful compare to that. How you post it here seems enough. All the best! (:
0
I find it really difficult to tell my parents things like this. Instead, I talk to a close friend, family member, or counselor who can then talk to my parents with me. This turns it into a discussion rather than admitting, which makes it seem like I've done something wrong.