I've been suffering from depression for the past year and a half, however I haven't told anyone about it in real life because I always just have trouble talking to people about myself aloud.

Usually I just have episodes of depression that last for a couple days and then I'm better for a while before they come back. And whenever I have suicidal thoughts they usually only last for an hour or so before I start feeling better.

For the past two days my depression has been pretty severe and my suicidal thoughts won't go away. I'm sick out always feeling like this, and never having happiness that lasts more than a couple days. I'm tired of waiting for things to get better. I want things to be better now.

I have no desire to tell anyone in my family about this for many reasons, which is why I'm waiting until I'm 18 to get professional help. However, I don't know if I can wait another year to start actually getting better. What should I do in the mean time?
Signed,
Courtney, 17, Courtice ON

 Hi Courtney!

Thank you for coming to us with this.  Depression isn't a matter you should take lightly, so you're very brave for reaching out for help.

 

Well, I agree that seeking professional help is definitely a good idea, but there are many things you can do in the meantime.  While I don't usually encourage self-diagnosing, it might help to know if you are clincally depressed or just feeling depressed. If you are suffering from major depressive disorder, there are things and people that can help you. You'll find the criteria for that here.

 

Until you can get professional help, there are things that you can do, though. This help guide provides some excellent tips. And this explains some possibly depression treatments.

 

Also, make sure you're getting outside sometimes.  Lack of sunlight (and more importantly, its Vitamin-D) is a large cause for depression symptoms, especially in the winter.

 

Make sure you are taking care of yourself physically first.  Then, it will be easier to focus on yourself emotionally.

 

You mentioned it's hard to speak about yourself in person?  Well, luckily, we live in an age where you can talk to people all over. If you would prefer to talk to people you know in real life, see if you can chat with one of them via e-mail or instant messaging if that's easier for you to do.  If you'd prefer to talk to someone who doesn't really know you, there are many social media sites where you can connect with people.

 

Good luck and I hope this has helped!