Dear Trevor, For the past two weeks I've felt extreme dysphoria and depression. I've felt suicidal every night, sometimes during the day also. It is becoming extremely hard to handle but because it has to do with being trans (I'm not out) I'm afraid to tell someone. Any advice?
Signed,
Morgan, 15, Washington DC
HI Morgan, By writing your letter, you have taken a big step toward reducing the isolation you feel. You have come out to us at the Trevor Project!!! People come out at different paces. Your comfort and safety are priorities. Take your time. There is no rush. Everyone at the Trevor Project cares about you and your well being. Know, you can always call the Trevor lifeline at 1-866-4-U-Trevor, 24 hours 7 days a week. If you feel you may act on suicidal thoughts, call 911 or get to the nearest hospital emergency room. In those dark moments, your immediate safety is crucial. Depression may be behind suicidal thoughts. Some indications of depression may include lack of energy, chronic fatigue, isolation from your friends and family, diminished interest in usually pleasurable activities, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and a general sense of helplessness. On www.us.reachout.com you'll find facts about depression by clicking on “struggles with feelings.” Please know that there is treatment for depression and suicidal thoughts. Consulting with a mental health professional, such as a social worker, psychologist, therapist or psychiatrist provides the best course of action to evaluate depression. Speaking with a mental health professional can assist one in understanding their thoughts and feelings and in finding a suitable course of treatment. On www.helpguide.org/mental/depression_teen_teenagers.htm you can learn more about depression and its treatment. On http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/databases/ you can search for mental health services in your area. You could also contact the Association of Gay and Lesbian Psychiatrists by calling 215-222-2800 or by visiting their website at www.aglp.org for help in finding someone in your area for you to talk and work with. Morgan, you are not alone. There are communities of wonderful, accepting people that understand what you are experiencing. You have taken your first step toward finding those communites for yourself. http://www.thedccenter.org/people_youth.html http://www.american.edu/ocl/glbta/Transgender-Resource-Guide-Resources.cfm These links provide some information on resources in the DC area. Having some local support will help reduce the stress you are feeling. Do not hesitate to give us a call. When you need someone to listen, we are a phone call away.