About Emily Expertise I can answer almost all teen issues such as self harm, suicide, eating disorders, depression and other mental health disorders, drugs, alcohol, assault, harrassment, family problems, trauma, friendship problems and a lot more, so just ask. Pretty much anything that teens have to face I can answer. I'm also Christian and non-judgmental so I can answer questions relating to religion. I will not judge people about anything.
Experience I've experienced a lot of stuff in my life including facing death in several ways, self-harm, suicide, alcohol, harrassment, family and friendship issues and more. I've had to deal with my dad being sick all my life with MS and cancer, and I've dealt with severe depression, anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder. I tried to kill myself more than once and now I want to help other teens who are having trouble.
Education/Credentials In college studying psychology among other subjects. Plus life experience.
Expert: Emily Date: 7/12/2008 Subject: My worst enemy is myself...
Question Hello Emily,
I'm 15 years old, and suffer from depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and even suicidal thoughts at times.
I haven't been enjoying life much lately, and find myself either online or asleep most of the day. I barely spend time drawing which is my favorite hobby, and I haven't spent much time with friends lately (I have been trying to, but I can't seem to get a hold of them with so many being busy or away), so I end up very lonely most of the day unless I'm chatting online or talking with my mom.
I'm finding life to often be very depressing, and I want to just end it all sometimes. I know suicide is not the answer, and my family I'm close to couldn't take something like that, especially since I have a sister who died 10 years ago at age 14 for unknown reasons.
Things I should mention: I have had suicidal thoughts for about 4 or 5 years. My parents are aware that I have suicidal thoughts. During the school year (which is over, yay!) I reported it to my school social worker in attempt to get help (I've gone through the whole reporting it thing several times, but made it clear it was really serious the last time). I am getting treated for both my suicidal tendencies, and depression with medication and weekly therapy, but I feel I need to do some more on my own part to fight it, but I don't know what. I have cut myself once (on my right arm), but didn't do it again when I realised the mark didn't leave (it's still faintly there, and it's been at least 4 months since I did it).
What do you suggest I do?
Thanks,
Christine
Answer Hi Christine. It’s good that you made the first step, getting help, and you’re right, you do need to do some things on your own part. These things are not easy to fight and it takes time and determination to get through it. I know this sounds quite obvious, but positive thinking is essential. Everytime you get these dark thoughts try telling yourself that you won’t let it take over and that you’re going to fight it.
Also, you could try using your drawing to help you. Whenever you get upset try drawing how you feel; this will help you to express your feelings and also you should find yourself more relaxed once you’ve finished. Also try keeping a journal of your feelings; it helps to express, and also when you look back on it in about a year you’ll be able to see how far you’ve come.
