I’m 17, I think i’ve been depressed since i was 11. I don’t think i can afford going to therapy/psychatrist. How do I know if I’m depressed if i don’t remember how to feel any different?
That question you’re asking on how to know if you’re depressed is actually one of the most honest and painful things to feel when things seem down and out for yourself. The fact that you’re questioning it at all suggests something in you knows this isn’t quite right.
Some signs that what you’re experiencing might be depression rather than just “how you are”: persistent low energy or feeling empty, losing interest in things that used to matter, feeling hopeless about the future, difficulty concentrating, or just a general grey flatness to most days. Do you resonate with any of that?
You’ve been carrying this for six years, possibly without even realising it wasn’t supposed to feel this way. That’s a long time, and you deserve support! These are some options for support that you may want to consider which are dedicated for youth.
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School Counselling Service – If you’re currently schooling in Singapore, you may want to consider seeing your school counsellor for mental health support.
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Community Health Assessment Team (CHAT) – This is an organisation that supports the mental health for young people aged 16 to 30 and offer free assessments. More information can be found here Chat
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If you need a listening ear, feel free to reach out to National Mindline 1771 via WhatsApp – 6669 1771 or by calling at 1771
Take care!