TeenHealthFX - Answers

Depression / Question
Published: January 4, 2008

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I will be 14 in April and anyway I am considered a "self harmer" because I cut..... My mom knows I am depressed but does not know how bad..... I have tried to overdoes one night but forced myself to through up..... I go to a counsilor and she checks my arms and legs (hide the cuts)........ I know its bad but I feel know one cares so whats there 2 live for?????? I also have tried marijuna, smoked, drink alchol and sadly almost gave a guy I liked oral sex.....(came 2 my senses thank god)!!!! Oh yes Im only 13...... Am I crazy????

Signed: Am I Crazy?

Dear Am I Crazy?,

TeenHealthFX does not think you are “crazy,” however we do think that there are some serious issues you are dealing with and that you are not getting the kind of help that you need to deal with these particular problems. FX thinks that it is very important you speak to your therapist and your mother about the current severity of your depression. Make sure that you are clear with them about the extent of your depression, your substance use, your attempt at overdosing, and your cutting. Then, you, your mother, and your therapist need to sit down and come up with a new treatment plan for you that will more effectively address your symptoms. This may mean attending therapy sessions more frequently, participating in a day treatment program, being evaluated by a psychiatrist for anti-depressant medication, or participating in family sessions with a trained family therapist so that your mother can be clear about how to be there for you in a helpful and supportive manner.

If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 973-247-1400. 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. You can also contact your insurance company to get a list of in-network mental health providers.

You can also contact the Self-Injury Hotline (information only, not a crisis line) at 1-800-DON’T-CUT, 1-800-366-8288.

If you get to the point that you are seriously considering suicide or are afraid of your impulses then you need to seek help immediately. You can call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room. In northern New Jersey you can also call the crisis hotline from Morristown Memorial hospital at 973-540-0100. Outside this area call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline, 1-800-999-9999, 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Signed: TeenHealthFX