I know school is starting soon and I dont know why but suddenly I feel super depressed.I started listening to songs and used something to hit my hand constantly. I started having bad thoughts and cried profusely at nostalgic thoughts. Is this normal?
Hi @userae
Thank you for courageously reaching out. That is already an important first step on your journey to address what you are experiencing so well done. 
I have observed that it is surprisingly common to feel some degree of feeling overwhelmed or emotional, especially with significant life changes like the start of school.
However, from what you have shared, may I recommend you to seek assistance soon as I am concerned that you are undergoing distress which is showing up in the form of negative thoughts, anxiety and inflicting pain on yourself. These behaviours are not healthy and need to be addressed.
Do consider contacting:
a)Samaritans of Singapore (SOS)
SOS operates a 24-hour hotline to provide emotional support for those in facing crisis.
1800 221 4444
b)CHAT
The Community Health Assessment Team (CHAT) provides confidential mental health checks for young persons between 16 and 30 years old, who are currently living in Singapore. They operate CHAT hub, a mental health centre located at *SCAPE and maintains an online presence through their website and webchat.
6493 6500
6493 6501
https://www.chat.mentalhealth.sg/
c)Fei Yue Community Services- EC2
LIVE CHAT eC2 is an online facility offering free counselling to youths.
d)TOUCH Community Services – TOUCHline
Emotional support and practical advice are rendered through this youth helpline:
1800 377 2252
e)Reach out to your school counsellor.
f)Confide in a trusted family member such as a parent.
I also encourage you to engage in activities that bring you joy, practice relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation).
Please know that you are not alone, and help is available. Please reach out to a trusted adult or a crisis helpline. Your well-being is paramount and you are precious.
Take the next steps soon.
Hi @userae,
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way. It’s important to acknowledge that what you’re experiencing is very real and can be incredibly overwhelming. The start of school can bring a lot of stress and anxiety, and it’s not uncommon for people to feel a mix of emotions, including sadness and nostalgia. These feelings can sometimes lead to physical actions, like hitting your hand, as a way to cope with the emotional pain. It’s crucial to recognize that while these feelings are valid, there are healthier ways to manage them.
I do agree that listening to music can be a comforting way to process emotions, but if you find that it’s making you feel worse, it might be helpful to switch to something more uplifting or calming. An example would be engaging in creative activities like drawing, painting, writing, or playing a musical instrument can be a great way to express your emotions and find some peace. Practices like deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness can help you stay grounded and reduce anxiety. There are many apps and online resources (such as Calm and Headspace) that offer guided sessions.
Crying can be a natural release of pent-up emotions, and it’s okay to let those feelings out. However, if you’re having persistent bad thoughts and finding it hard to cope, it might be a sign that you need some additional support. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional can provide you with the support and guidance you need during this tough time.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. Many people go through similar struggles, and reaching out for help is a strong and brave step. It’s important to take care of yourself and find healthy ways to manage your emotions. If you ever feel like you’re in immediate danger or unable to cope, please seek help from a professional immediately. Your well-being is important, and there are people who care about you and want to help you through this.