Depression Understood Forums

I'm not really sure how I should be introducing myself, but I'll do the best I can..

My name's Sarah, I'm sixteen years old, and I don't really know what's wrong with me, or if there's even anything wrong with me, although it feels like there is. I looked things up, and apparently it's possible that I have depression, and/or bipolar disorder, and maybe other things. I haven't been diagnosed with anything yet, so of course it's not certain and all, but it's rather comforting to know there just might be a real reason behind the way I feel, and that this isn't completely my fault.

I guess I came here looking for an outlet, or maybe to find proof for myself that the "You're not alone" phrase might really be true; that there might really be other people out there that understand how I feel.

Well.. I guess that's my attempt at an introduction. I'll try my best to be polite and considerate to everybody here, and to follow the rules, but I'm still terrified that I'm going to mess up somehow, or offend somebody, so... for what it's worth, I'm really, really sorry in advance, just in case.

Hi. First off i have to say this.... there are so many different possible diagnosis and the symptoms overlap so drastically that it really does take a trained professional to accurately diagnose. Once you get a definate diagnosis then you can begin to know how to treat it. Second, no hon, you are not alone at all.

Hi Sarah,

Nice to meet you, and welcome to this forum. I am just a regular person experiencing moderate depression right now, and have been through major/severe depression many times in the past. I came here a week ago because my pain has been growing and, like you, needed an outlet to express this instead of keeping it bottled-up. I've learned so many times in the past how keeping-it bottled-up did nothing but make it worse. You said you're not sure if you are experiencing depression --- I can't say for sure and a doctor would have to confirm it, but the fact you came here suggests to me that you very well might. It's ok, all of us here hurt and need to be able to lean on someone. It's not us feeling sorry for ourselves, nor pitying each other, but rather a good place where all of us can vent and understand the pain, and being able to relate so easily.

Please take care, Sarah, and know that you are not alone and glad you came here!

Sincerely,

Eric

In retrospect was dealing with depression at around 5th grade over the untimely death of my 6 year old sister. But even before that event felt extremely sad and blue and really still do not understand in my 50's and am glad that there are places like this to express what I felt was forbidden to say to my great loving parents and relatives for fear of becoming abhorrent in their eyes.

Welcome, Sarah!

It may seem sometimes like there isn't anyone out there who cares, but I've seen in my days quite the opposite. I hope ya find out what's goin' on with how yer feelin'!