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How can I tell my parents that I think I'm depressed?

307 Answers
Last Updated: 12/03/2021 at 1:00am
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
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Stacy Overton, PhD.

Counselor

I am an enthusiastic life-long learner and also a professor of counseling. I have a passion for peoples stories and helping to guide and empower the human spirit.

Top Rated Answers
loveAndsupport09
July 17th, 2020 4:24am
Just sit down with them and tell them the truth. Parents may be annoying but they will always be there for us. You may not feel as if they care but they do. You have to remember that they were young once too. I told my mom and she understood because a lot of wha I was feeling was what she went through as well. Telling them the ruth may not be easy but jus know that they will always be there to support us. You are not alone and you are always going to have someone by your side wether you know it or not.
Anonymous
August 9th, 2020 9:08am
Find a time when they can give you their full and absolute attention. Make sure they are relaxed and not stressed , so that they can help you out to their maximum ability...... Its really important to tell them exactly how you are feeling...and when it started. Your parents are their to help you out and look after you so dont feel guilty about telling them anything. You have to trust you parents and think that they will be able to help you. Trust gives you confidence which is important for you to tell them everything... I hope this helps.
kindBerry5266
August 23rd, 2020 7:34pm
It is best to be as honest as possible. Your parents may feel like they did something wrong or not know the “right” thing to say. They may try to downplay what you’re feeling, and going into the conversation knowing that’s a possibility may make it easier to not be disheartened by it. Sometimes it also helps if you can have a friend or sibling there to support you while you open up to your parents. No matter what happens, the listeners on 7 Cups are here to share the burden and let you know you are not alone.
gentleSun78
September 4th, 2020 7:04am
It depends on how you talk about your feelings in your family. If feelings are conveyed in more direct way in your family, then you can simply tell them that you feel depressed. If feelings are conveyed in more indirect way, then you can tell them that you don't feel well and that you need some rest maybe. If you can't talk to them about your feeling at all, it can be more tough to tell them about how do you feel. But if your feelings affect your performance in school, in household chores and so on, they will see that something is going on with you and maybe ask you what is the matter. Then you can maybe tell them that you don't or didn't feel well.
ingeniousBeauty4518
September 9th, 2020 10:01pm
If you are looking to tell your parents your depressed, just go straight for it. don’t keep feelings bottled up as that will make your mental health even worse. try to say it when you guys are alone if that makes you feel better. start by saying you have been feeling down recently and just generally haven’t been happy and your looking to seek medical help. hopefully this will convince them to refer you to a mental health professional! if that’s not the case try telling them the symptoms of depression you are suffering and hopefully that can help them understand.
AIRNSWCULA
September 13th, 2020 6:20am
First thing is to know that there is nothing wrong with asking for help. Telling parents that you are facing something that feels really big, like anxiety or depression, can be tough. But it is a parent's job to help you out, and they are almost always more sympathetic, and less judgmental, than you imagine. You're likely to be more important to them than you realize, and they are not really feeling happy if you are not happy. But you need to let them know you how you are feeling. Just tell them that you want to see someone who can help.
Carla1217
September 18th, 2020 12:39am
My mom used to always call me a “drama queen”. I was very scared to tell her when I thought I was depressed. But knowing her, I tried to find the moment when she was in a calm state, and I sat her down and explained what had been going on in my life. A lot of it she wasn’t aware about, so after explaining everything, I ended it with “I really feel sad all the time, and I don’t know how to make it go away. I don’t want to feel sad anymore. Can you help me?” She tried to give me advice, and I tried to take her advice, but kept communicating with her that I was still sad and unhappy. She finally took me to a therapist and it helped a lot.
comfortingSnowflake5483
October 4th, 2020 8:09am
I can understand that it is hard to confront your family on some of your personal issues. It might be frustrating to know that my parents who observe me on a daily basis have also not noticed my feelings. I would also feel sad and frustrated if that were the case but only if we sit down with them and understand what is causing us to feel like this then we can definitely overcome our fears. Trust me once you emotionally connect with your parents to discuss your problem you'll be so relieved because now you don't have to deal with this problem alone. :)
Anonymous
October 9th, 2020 8:44am
Communication is key in any relationship. Talking to your parents about your mental health can help both parties better understand each other. Educate yourself on the signs/symptoms of depression and talk with your parents about the symptoms you are experiencing. Allow them to ask questions without responding defensively. Ask them questions about their observations of your behavior to see how apparent you signs/symptoms are. Also ask them about possible treatment options to prevent any further or future downward spirals. It may surprise you how aware or unaware your parents are of your depression and treatment options you find or they find may be beneficial.
Alwayshearforyou247
October 15th, 2020 12:57am
It’s always good to speak to someone you trust about how you feel. When you feel comfortable enough to share with your parents, it will be a good time to share. You can than slowly getting into more details as you feel more and more comfortable. If your parents are being tough on you or giving you a hard time... it’s important to discuss your feelings with them. If they know how you feel or have been feeling maybe they’ll understand you better and they might not be as harsh on you like they were before. You should always communicate your feelings with someone.
Ylbirda
October 24th, 2020 8:04am
With all the honesty. They're your parents, they're there to support you and help you when you're in need. Depression isn't something you can solve by yourself, so the help of your parents or other people you trust will be vital to get better. Your parents will probably have many questions, you can give them all the answers you have and then work together towards you getting better. If you feel that it's too much to tell both your parents at once, you can talk to them separately, or just tell one of your parents if that seems more doable.
TGTristan
October 30th, 2020 3:39pm
Know that you're parents want what's best for you, even if it's not what they want to hear. I recommend asking your parents to sit down and have a conversation about it free from any siblings or distractions by having this conversation at a dining table. Your parents might not understand t first and feel that merely cheering you up is the solution to the problem when in reality it doesn't work like that. The fact that they know and you are having to struggle alone can help tremendously and make it feel like there is hope. Your parents knowing will also allow you to not worry about having to hide it and you may be able to get medication or partake in activities that help you overcome whatever sort of depression you are feeling.
gingergirl330
November 5th, 2020 8:36pm
You have to be open with them and tell them everything you feel. They will not judge you, they are your parents and they love you and will be with you. As a first step you can tell them that you want to consult a psychologist to make sure you are suffering from depression because it can be something else. I'm sure they'll understand you. No parent wants to see their child suffer. Parents give everything to make their child happy. They can't help you if you don't talk to them and explain how you feel. Everything will be fine!
Anonymous
November 8th, 2020 6:41am
There's no easy way. Depends on your parents. Most of the parents are loving and caring, but this is not the case always. First, you need to prepare yourself. Get yourself in a state of mind, and be ready to be asked questions. Next, gather your parents at a time when they are calmer and less stressed. Could be a weekend, or a couple of hours after they are done with work. When you talk with them, be straight and simple. Express the reasons why you think you are depressed. Ask for professional help. Your parents have good intentions, but they are no professionals. Make sure they understand this.
Anonymous
November 18th, 2020 1:47pm
It's always good to think of a plan on how to tell them. Ask them if you could speak with them and slowly mention how you feel until you are comfortable sharing that you are depressed. It's always good to ask them if you can get mental health support such as therapy. Telling you're parents that you are depressed can be difficult and make you feel anxious, however, it is important that information like this is addressed so you can be supported by your family or through external support. Know that you're parents may not fully understand and that is okay! Try to explain to them how you are feeling and how you wish to be supported.
Anonymous
December 3rd, 2020 8:58pm
Telling your parents that you feel depressed can be a difficult experience. I had trouble speaking to one parent as is and still haven't spoken to both. At some point, I begin to feel that the suffering I faced in depression was interfering with other areas of my life such as my relationships. I think from that point, I really started to feel it was necessary. I'm not saying that this is the case for you as well. You may have very different circumstances and may not decide to speak with your parents. This was what worked for me in speaking about depression. 1. Talking to one parent first before speaking with both. 2. Speaking about things that onset my depression or make it worse. 3. Making it clear that this was the topic I needed to discuss by getting to the point.
fairyava
January 9th, 2021 12:53am
Every family is very different. How do you think your parents would react if you told them you were depressed? Do you think they would be supportive? Try and think of the way you are going to tell them, such as over a phone call, in person, or maybe even writing them a letter if talking out loud is too nerve-racking for you. Let them know that you have a serious topic that you'd like to have a conversation about, and do it at a time where the people in your household are calm and prepared to have a serious talk.
Anonymous
June 12th, 2021 3:00pm
This is very important, you need all the support and help you can get, since they are your parents, don't be afraid to let them know about your depression, you can try invite them to discuss about this matter, how you feel, how's it's affecting you and the reasons that are causing your depression and how you'd like to be helped, know that you have the right to receive help and support, your parents should be the first people you can count on. There is no perfect timing to bring this up since depression is an urgent matter, you can also help them understand about this condition by sending them an article about depression. If you're hesitant to tell them upfront, you can try by email if that's going to make you feel at ease but whichever way you choose, it's important to let them know at least. I hope this helps.
Anonymous
November 4th, 2021 9:11am
What do you think is right? When I was depressed and needed to tell them I felt so incredibly worried because of what they would say, if they would understand. But despite that I went in with the aim of being fully honest and open, afterall I can't decide how they choose to react, but I can choose how I express myself. What is perhaps holding you back from telling them? For me it was their reaction, and it's totally okay to be worried about telling them. It takes a lot of courage and I have faith in you!
Anonymous
September 23rd, 2021 1:49pm
You can sit down with them, try some breathing exercises so you don't get too anxious. Start by telling them how you feel sometimes, and about how they make you feel maybe. And tell them if you think you need help. Understand that they may be confused, or haven't noticed your unusual behaviour. If they haven't, then try pointing out things, talking about your feelings, talking about what stresses you out, but remember to be safe. Ask them to go to a therapist or mental health professional to see if you can get diagnosed, and if you need to be put on medication. Try not be scared that they'll make fun of you, this is something you need to get checked out, it's worth the talk. :)
wintert44
September 19th, 2021 1:02am
Communication is key. I recommend finding a time where your parents aren't stressed about anything and are in a happy mood. Maybe ask them about their experiences with mental illness, and see if they have gone through stuff with depression. Do not be ashamed to ask for help, it does not make you weak and in fact it makes you stronger. Simply tell them maybe you would benefit from a therapist or perhaps ask for a doctors appointment so that way you can talk to a trusted doctor about how you feel. At the end of the day, you are valid and not alone.
starthere7
August 22nd, 2021 4:17pm
I would say 9 out of 10 times, our parents would already know what is going on. Maybe not the whole story but they can tell when something is new, off, different from their children. If I was in your shoes, I would reach out the parent I am more comfortable to discuss these kind of matters with. It might sound daunting or nerve wracking but I am pretty sure your parents ears, shoulders and arms are just waiting for you to make the first them and tell them what is going on. Take one step at a time. Also, go in with an open mind and with no expectations. You got this!
Actuallynobody017
August 6th, 2021 1:18am
It's not easy to tell your parents. If you feel you are seeing signs of depression, you can start to share your feelings with them and tell them how you have tried to feel better. If you know the reason, you may share with them that as well. If your parents are supportive they will understand, if they are not, you can still share with them your feelings as much as is okay with you. It's not easy but informing your parents can be a good idea. You may be going through a lot of problems and doubts yourself but that is obvious. Don't be too frustrated if your parents don't understand you after you try to make them understand. Your mental health still matters. Listen to what makes you feel comfortable and better. Take care.
Lululilypad1023
July 8th, 2021 9:03pm
It's always good to start by saying that you would like their help. People always seem to feel like their just supposed to be like "omg that sucks" and then move on. But if you're calm and collected about it, and tell them in a confident and open way, they'll be more likely to accept it and want to help you, especially when you emphasis that you want their help. Explain why you think you are, make sure they're actually listening and not doing other things so that you actually get your point across, and assume the best! They might react a little strongly, but don't let that tear you apart. Be strong:) You got this, I believe in you!!
avanef
July 4th, 2021 3:48pm
It can be difficult to open up to anyone, not just your family on how you’re feeling. Depression is unfortunately a silent killer amongst us all. For some people it comes and goes, and for others it’s a life-long battle that leads to taking medication, seeing a therapist or in less happy ways death. The BEST advise I could give anyone who is feeling depressed, is to tell SOMEONE. Even if it’s your 70 year old neighbor across the street, a stranger on the subway. If you don’t feel comfortable/ready to address this with your family, that is 100% okay. Your mental, physical, and emotional health is important and you don’t want to comprise it because you’re under more stress and emotion when you disclose this with your family. From personal experience; I use to write down my feeling in a diary. It’s old-school, but years went by and I read through it and it was incredibly shocking to see my struggles and how I overcame them or how minuscule they really were. It’s not for everyone, but as long as you can either find a person to talk to about this or something that you know hands down, without a doubt cheers you up - do it. It’ll help relieve the mind of thinking of what’s bothering you for the time being. Doesn’t mean you won’t be depressed anymore, but it could potentially solve the underlying issue or keep you from making any irrational decisions. I wish you the best, you’re always welcome on 7Cups, we’re here for you.
Anonymous
June 25th, 2021 4:28am
Your parents will know something is wrong. You might not think this is true but it is! When I was going through depression my mom would ask if something was wrong. I would deny it at first but then when I felt it was debilitating my life I had to say something. You will feel more comfortable with one parent more than the other. Once you start expressing how you feel, or even your demeanor right away they will know. Also, if you are having eating problems either eating too much or little they will see that as a problem. Little hints they will see and will keep asking questions.
Sunsetwatcher107
April 11th, 2021 1:29am
You can tell your parents that you have been feeling more sad and you have lost interest in what your hobbies are. But only tell them this if it is the truth, you shouldn't lie to your parents about feeling this way. You should ask them to take you to the doctor and you should start talking to a therapist. Even if you feel uncomfortable talking about this to your parents or anyone else, you should keep in mind that you might end up feeling better and feeling happy is better than being depressed. So talk to your parents about how your feeling, go to the doctor so they can help you and talk to a therapist or trusted adult.
Anonymous
April 23rd, 2021 1:14pm
You could try to start with sitting them down on the couch and explaining why you think you're depressed. Be prepared with research and symptoms that you can relate with. If they have more questions than you do not have the answers to at the moment, tell them that you will get back with them when you can or tell them to look up their questions for more insight on the symptoms of depression. Make sure that they are in a good mood before you start the conversation, it will impact the result positively if you do. Hope this helps!
Anonymous
April 18th, 2021 6:38pm
As a parent I can assure you that your parents would very much want to know if you are experiencing depression. They will be MUCH more stressed if you don’t tell them, and they find out later. Think….if you were a parent, would you want your child to tell you if he or she was sad? As you already know, at least 50% of clinical depression is genetic. It has nothing to do with lack of willpower. Also, as in my case depression can be caused from an insult to the brain (TBI). All efforts to control your anxiety/depression should be initiated by medical personnel. Too, a great majority of the time if you have anxiety, you also have depression. The number one health problem in the world today is stress; consequently, all steps should be taken to control it.
snugglyDog7961
May 5th, 2021 1:04pm
Make them understand what you have been feeling, don't hold anything back. I know most parents think of depression as a first world problem but the truth is it can happen to anyone anytime. Make your parents sit down, talk about whatever you have been facing and feeling and how it might be affecting your productivity or your performance at school or work. Then tell them why you think you are depressed. Just don't go saying, "Hey mom and dad, I am depressed". Probably, they won't take you seriously and might yell at you or make fun of you or just say that it a mere phase and happens to everyone. If you think you do not have the guts to face them, maybe try sending a whatsapp message or an email. Last of all, if your parents still do not understand, try contacting someone you trust like school counsellor, your friendly teacher or maybe an older friend.