Advice for depression?

Question

I'm currently only 19 years old but I've had a depressive disorder since I was 16. I'm trying to move forward in my life as I start college with my wonderful boyfriend who would do absolutely anything for me. I'm not sure how to help him understand what I'm actually going through. He wants to help and be there every step of the way but he doesn't understand why I get so sad or why I'm so depressed. Also what are some good hobbies I can start to pull myself out of this depression?

Answer

I noticed your comment about not being sure if you can afford to talk to someone. You should look into what your college offers for services. When I was a freshman in college I was across the country from my family and friends and my depression got even worse than it had been in high school. I looked into the resources at my school and I was able to see a therapist there because I was a full time student. That may be an option at your school!

Also, one thing that helps me is exercise. I HATE to do it, but whenever I do I always feel a lot better afterwards. That could even include just going for a walk. Also I try and make sure I find music that I really enjoy. I love to just veg out, unplug from the world and just listen to music. It helps sometimes to disconnect and forget about everything else that is going on around me.

As far as the boyfriend, it's hard to explain to people who haven't been through it. I often find that when I am having a really hard time and my SO, or a friend is asking if everything is okay, the best thing for me is just to say, "I'm having kind of a hard time right now. I don't want to talk about it, but thanks for being there." And if they asked if they could do anything to help I'd just say something along the lines of, "I don't really need anything right now, but I really appreciate you being here for me. Your support really helps."

Good luck! If you need to talk I'd be happy to lend an ear.

Answer

Hey, I'm 19 too and I suffer from depression. What I like to do is write... like keep a journal. Whenever I get down I just write about it. It helps a lot more than you would think... I also have gone to counseling you might want to try something like that... and as for your boyfriend when you write share it with him... if he reads how you feel then maybe he could understand.

Answer

Let your boyfriend know that he won't always be able to help. I've had major depression for 5 years now and my boyfriend knows that sometimes love just isn't enough. You don't want him to feel down about not being able to help while you're also feeling down, you know? Also, a lot of colleges have a free counseling center on campus that can help. Mine did, at least. It would be worth checking out. Also think about antidepressants if you aren't already on them. I wasn't able to keep interest in anything until I started. Otherwise, working out and being outside a lot is typically helpful. Make yourself smile at least once a day. Start journaling. Good luck

Answer

Hiking. Or walking a nature trail. Swimming at a lake. Nature really helps lift my spirits. And if you want your s/o to understand, you have to communicate. Let them know if they are helping or hurting, tell them if you have any triggers. The more they understand the more supportive they'll be.

Advice for depression?

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