First time reaching out

[Storm]

Hi, I just found this site today. I was trying to take my boyfriend's advice and talk to someone about how I've been feeling lately. I'm not really sure how this works, but I don't feel comfortable talking about this sort of thing with the people I'm close to, so here I am. I've struggled with on and off depression and minor self harm for a few years now, and I've never talked to anyone about it (but my first boyfriend has noticed I've been down and encouraged me to find another outlet, since I don't want to burden him with this.) I've had a few people close to me with more serious depression, so I guess I don't feel "extreme" enough to warrant going to a doctor or anything. I'm really just looking for some tips, or support or something on how to cope day to day. If anyone would be willing to share their stories and how they got through it, that would be amazing too. V.nervous about posting this.

[nenkohai]

Heyya Storm,

I can appreciate why you're nervous about posting. But, I'll tell ya, many understanding folks here.

Can I ask you something? Is your feeling down times impacting your quality of life? Even a little?

THAT question is my personal benchmark as to whether getting a doctor's help is appropriate. If the answer is "yes," or even "well, kinda," then it is the right decision to seek professional help.

What is NOT appropriate? Making comparisons between how you feel and someone else (even if they are a family member or friend). Everyone is different.

Best of everything to you.