Depression / Question
Published: July 29, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm 17 and I've been depressed for about 5 or 6 years. I was just wondering when you're depressed, is it normal to have someone that your obsessed about because there's this teacher I have and she's my favorite person in the world. I like her so much because she's nice to me and she doesn't treat me like I'm stupid like everyone else in my life does. I'm on summer break right now and I was thinking about how bad I want to talk to her but then I always think of it as a waste of her time. When I get upset like this I think about suicide but I'm not going too because I want to live. I just can't keep thinking about it and by the way do you think I should call her and do you think I should be staying home alone because my mom dad and brother are at the beach? Thanks.
Signed: Lonely & Misses Favorite Teacher
Dear Lonely & Misses Favorite Teacher,
It is normal when you are feeling lonely to feel attached to one person who makes you feel good. It sounds like this teacher is very special to you. However, it is also important for you to be forming strong relationships with people your age. It would not be appropriate for you and your teacher to have the kind of relationship you could have with other kids your age. While it is good to have someone like this in your life as a role model and a source of support, it concerns us that you refer to yourself as "obsessed" with your teacher.
You say that you have been depressed for 5 or 6 years. Have you been evaluated and/or treated for this? If not, TeenHealthFX urges you to talk to your parents about how you have been feeling and that you want to get help. Depression is a very treatable illness with therapy and/or medication. If you cannot talk to your parents, talk to another trusted adult, like an aunt or uncle or a teacher or school nurse who can talk to your parents for you and get you the help you need. If you live in northern New Jersey and would like help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888.247.1400. If you live outside of northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist, log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) website for referrals near you.
It also concerns us that you do not feel certain you should be left alone, and we want you to know that if at any point your feelings are overwhelming and you become afraid of your impulses, call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room for help. If you live in northern New Jersey you can call the Atlantic Health Systems Crisis Hotline at 973-540-1400 for direct assistance. Outside this area call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline at 1-800-999-9999, 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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