Depression / Question
Published: December 18, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I've been crying myself to sleep for 3 weeks and I feel completely miserable all of the time. My friends say I'm not all there some of the time. I also am losing my appetite and sleep. What is wrong with me?
Signed: Crying Myself To Sleep
Dear Crying Myself To Sleep,
While we cannot diagnose you over the internet, it sounds like you may be suffering from depression. You are not alone - depression is very common among teenagers, and you can find lots of questions like yours on this site in the Emotional Health section under the heading "depression."
Your first step is to seek support - talk to your parents or someone else who you can trust. Let them know how you have been feeling, and ask them for help in finding a therapist. ( If you live in northern New Jersey you can also call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area.) Depression can be treated, and with some help you can start feeling better soon.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Teens often abuse prescription drugs because of the myth that these drugs provide a medically safe high.
