is it possible for 12 yrs old to be depressed?

I see myself in you. That was me. My anti social behavior was fed by the lack of acceptance from my parents. From what you say of your mother, it sounds as though she is not being very supportive. It's simply not right for parents not to have their child's back in situations like this.

As far as her thinking that a bully is self confident, well, she has no clue, does she? Bullies are the most insecure people around. It's why they bully, so maybe they can control something in their life. The bully that picked on you may very well be getting bullied at home by an older sibling or, God forbid, like me, by their parents.

My only guidance to you is to lead with love and self acceptance. Anti social, to me, was fed by every adult in my life thinking I wasn't worthy of their time and compassion. That's not your doing. It says more about them than it does about you. I would encourage you to find an adult that has confidence in themselves and is compassionate and go to them, talk to them, and seek out their support. You deserve as much love and support as they can offer.

Finally, your question; can a 12 year old be depressed? Yes, but I do hope that you can see that you are being influenced by an adult that is not giving you the empowerment and encouragement you so richly deserve. I wish you luck and love. Take care!

Okay, yes it is possible and I know that many people with mental health issues as adults started experiencing symptoms in childhood rather than adolescence, but the severity does vary. I do not know where you are from in the world but if you are from the UK I know plenty of links which may help you reach out for support. However I am not sure about this but I was under the assumption that here at 7cups we have a rule that only over 13s can have accounts @Flourish, @Heather @ Maku @Laura

I am hoping that this member accidentlypushed a 2 instead of a 3. As long as the member is13, they areallowed here. With that, I am almost positive they meant 13.

Even in young children depression is very possible. My parents thought my sister had ADD b/c she has having issues with attention but it turns out that she was suffering from depression which was effecting her attention. Very possible, talk to your parents and then your doctor. But also very treatable, maybe you just need someone to talk to :)

I have been depressed as long as I can remember. I didn't show any reaction to it until I was about 10 or 11. Then it was obvious. So yes a pre teen can be depressed. I am sorry your mom isn't supportive. I know what that is like.

First, I am so proud of you for reaching out for support and validation. That is a huge thing to do at such a young age. You are brave to be here.

Second, your feelings are valid. Your experience is valid. After being bullied in school it is okay to not want to socialize. The feelings fit the situation completely.

Third, your mom loves you. She may not understand your experience but she loves you. It's also okay if you two don't see eye-to-eye, you have different experiences.

If you would be willing,I would like to suggest that you do some research into Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I have Major Depressive Disorder that could have not gone as far as it has if I had experienced DBT before it grew. I've been in it since November and my life has improved for the better. Everything isn't peachy yet, but a lot has changed in how I see myself, others, my emotions, and the world.

Many many well wishes your way, dear one.

I am mum to a 14 year old boy who has suffered from depression since he was about 10. It started when he was bullied at primary school by an unusually toxic child that the school was unable to control. My sons depression was coupled with anxiety, low self esteem and other things. He is clever, funny, sensitive, caring and all sorts of wonderful things with a family who adores him...but like me...he is prone to depression. He was diagnosed at 12, and has had a short CBT course and some counselling sessions which gave him some tools to cope with his feelings. I wonder if that might help you? We were sceptical at first but it helped more than we expected.You are very far from alone. There are children like you with depression all over the world and none of you deserve it just as none of you deserve to be bullied.

My son has moved to senior school and still has trouble with bullies because he's not one of the football crowd, but is learning to love himself and appreciate his differences and how special he is. He's even had the courage to grow his hair despite much teasing. I'm so proud of him!

You don't have to be like the creeps to fit in. You can take that path if you want. Wear the shoes they wear, get into the sports they are...just to blend in, or you can be yourself and revel in it. I tell my son he doesn't have to be one of the sheep. Be a wold not a sheep I say to him. Apparently I'm meant to say be a shepherd not a sheep... but never mind!

I'm so sorry you don't get the support you need from mum. It took a long time for me to realise it but parents don't have amazing skills or psychic powers nor do they know everything about their children. Parents are often wrong. They do their best on the whole,but they're just people. I think your mum has it wrong about you. I can see from your post that you are eloquent, and thoughtful. You are considerate of other people and many other things. You have a lot to be proud of.

I would love you to get some professional help. If you had diabetes you'd go to a doctor wouldn't you? Depression is the same. I take Cymbalta which helps me. My son doesn't take anything to help at the moment but there is plenty out there to help 12 year olds and younger.

Depression stinks but it comes and goes like the tides. I've been at points in my life where suicide has seemed like the only answer but for whatever reason didn't do it...and everytime I have been oh so grateful I haven't.

The darkest hour comes before the dawn.

Much love to you