Depression / Question
Published: May 24, 2005
Dear TeenHealthFX,
lately i've been feeling like i'm trying to be something that im not and the more and more i think about it the more and more depresse i become.i would talk to my friends about it but they would look down on me because of it thats why i haven't been wanting to spend time with them should i let them know th way i feel? from want2lettherealmeout
Signed: Feeling Like I'm Something I'm Not
Dear Feeling Like I'm Something I'm Not,
TeenHealthFX can understand why trying to be something you are not could be difficult. Putting on a constant act is hard to keep up with. Not to mention, you are hiding the real you.
It is understandable that you would feel depressed. Sometimes feeling sad can lead into a more serious depression and even suicidal thoughts. If you feel like this is happening to you, FX wants you to get help immediately! If you live in northern New Jersey, call the 24-hour CRISIS HOTLINE at (973) 540.0100. Outside Northern New Jersey, call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline 1-800-999-9999. Both of these numbers can get you into the services you need.
You may not be feeling suicidal, but still nonetheless need to talk to an adult about the situation, like a parent, family member, a teacher . These people can help you sort some of this out and lead you to a therapist (if needed) who can help you over time deal with your issues of not being yourself and get to the root of what is going on. Keeping things bottled up will only make the depression worse so it is important that you get help. Just having someone to talk to about what is going on may help you to feel not so alone.
FX has to ask - Why are you trying to be something your not? Are you embarrassed? Are you trying to impress your friends? Are you hiding something? Answering the "why" question will give you some insight and can help you to change or work through what is going on.
It sounds like you have realized that it is important to let the "real you" show. Good, this is an important 1st step in change. You can do this by starting to think and act for yourself. This will let you be who you are. You mention that your friends will look down on you if you are yourself. However from your question it sounds like you have not given them the chance. FX believes that you should. You may just want to talk to them one at a time instead of all simultaneously. This will give you the chance to explain to him/her how you are feeling. Keep in mind when you are doing this that if your friends decide not to like you for who you are, then it may be time to move on and make new friends based on honesty and trust.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Among male drivers between 15 and 20 years of age who were involved in fatal crashes in 2005, 38% were speeding at the time of the crash and 24% had been drinking.
