Hello! I'm struggling with a lot of anxiety attacks and depressive episodes. I recovered from severe depression and anxiety half a year ago. I'm terrified of telling my parents as they usually aggravate it and I'm not okay with the way they treat me these days. My sister also bullies me as she knows a secret of mine. And so I get intrusive thoughts towards her and myself. I've never gotten therapy before. I'm a good student but can't remember things or solve problems in school. I panic in class.
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Hey there,
Lots of people struggle with anxiety attacks and depressive episodes but that does not mean that they should struggle alone. In your case, a lot of people feel like they need help but don’t know how to bring it up to their parents, or are afraid to. Remember that it’s a parent’s job to help and love you. Constantly bring up the subject and ask for help. Don’t wait for the perfect moment because there usually is not one. Acknowledge that your parents probably don’t understand your condition and may not have grown up learning about mental illnesses. Sometimes, unsupportive families need education about your anxiety and depression so they have a better understanding of what you’re going through. Here are some resources:
https://www.nami.org/Home
https://www.mhanational.org/
https://www.nami.org/Support-Education/Mental-Health-Education/NAMI-Family-to-Family
On another note, don’t buy into the misconceptions of anxiety or depression. They are not a sign of weakness but are a result of mood-regulating chemicals in your brain and you are not an attention seeker if you ask for help. Feeling a lack of support from your close friends and family can make coping with anxiety and depression much more difficult. If the people in your life aren’t giving you the love and support that you need, seek out a mental health professional or join an online or in-person support group. Some online resources include: Talkspace, ADAA Online Support Group, and Online-Therapy.com.
Remember that nothing is more important than your well-being. You are struggling with anxiety attacks and depressive episodes which is affecting your mental health, education, and personal life. Talk to your family and educate them. Let your sister know that her actions towards you are harming your mental health and let them know that you need help as soon as possible. If your family loves you as I know they do, then they will be sympathetic and listen to your concerns.
I wish you all the best in your recovery. Here are some additional articles that you can explore:
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/anxiety-and-panic-attacks/for-friends-family/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/depression-and-anxiety/faq-20057989
https://www.webmd.com/depression/features/anxiety-depression-mix#1
https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/depression
https://www.gulfbend.org/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=38470&cn=1
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
Best,
Jennie