AboutChris Harris Expertise I can help with referral questions regarding suicide prevention and treatment as well as problems finding support, speaking with loved ones about suicide, and accessing needed services. I do not give advice regarding medications or endorse any particular service group or organization.
Experience Out patient therapist, emergency room social worker, and drug and alcohol counselor
Education/Credentials masters degree in social work, State social work license
Expert: Chris Harris Date: 6/16/2008 Subject: Feeling suicidal
Question Hi, I recently moved to the U.S.A to participate in an exchange program for my university, I have been here for 6 months... out of the 1 year I'm supposed to stay. Ever since i've been here I've been having problems, and I have never been happy. I have had bad rashes, eczema im told, I have been getting bad dandruff since I have been here and I have been getting cold sores. None of these I had ever had before. It just seems like one problem after another, and I never want to go outside, I hate being looked at, I barely ever leave my apartment. I've always been vain I guess... And I have never had high self esteem, the only time I ever feel good about myself is when I receive a compliment, any other time, I always feel like people are looking at me and laughing to themselves.
Recently it has become even worse. I have never been happy and I have been lonely and I miss all my friends and family from back home... I feel so depressed and have contemplated suicide, I hate living and it just seems like one problem after another, i can honestly see no real reason to keep on living.
Answer Don,
I found your letter in the question pool so I thought I would drop you a note. It seems the move here is causing a great deal of stress to you. You may have internalized it but it is there and it is coming out in physical ways. Talk to your school's medical clinic, they should have a psychiatrist and therapist on staff. Please call 1800suicide to speak to a live person who can help you right away. The symptoms you describe sound like anxiety and depression so you should have a good evaluation in order to get the best treatment. The good news is both conditions are very treatable. Good luck and drop me a note if you need any additional help.
Chris
