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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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Audienceofone08
June 28th, 2020 5:48am
It is so hard to get the courage to tell your parents about any mental health issues, especially if they aren’t very understanding. However, it is usually worth it to open up to them, as it allows them to see into your world and often brings you closer. Telling parents about mental health issues could help you to get the right help you need, such as attending therapy sessions. It depends on your specific relationship with your parents, but I would suggest to tell them in a private place (or even one-on-one) so that you feel more comfortable. If your parents are unfamiliar with depression, it could be helpful to find a way to explain it in simple terms and clearly state the things you are feeling and symptoms you are experiencing. Some parents automatically assume depression or depressive symptoms directly correlate with circumstances and might be confused as to why youre feeling this way. Be prepared to explain that depression is not always circumstantial. These are just things to keep in mind, but please don’t overthink it! You’re parents should love you and want to help you through anything you’re going through. Even if they don’t react to your struggles in a supportive way, it is worth it to be honest and begin seeking help. Eventually, they will be thankful you opened up to them and hopefully it will bring you closer together as well as closer to getting the help you need.
Anonymous
February 7th, 2020 3:39pm
Hello, friend~ Reaching out to parents about your mental health can be scary! However, depression is a very common condition, and there's a library of information about it both online and in books. If your parents are not already familiar with it, these can be a valuable resource in helping you put how you're feeling into words they may better understand. It takes a lot of courage to share that you're struggling with someone; thank you for reaching out to us, as well. I'm really glad you're here~ Ultimately, you know your relationship with your parents best, and if you need to follow up any conversation with them with a message to one of us, we're here to listen.
wonderfulSunshine91
May 1st, 2019 3:17pm
It may seem like your parents might not be able to help, especially if they are always nagging you or getting angry about your behavior. However, they may just feel frustrated because they don’t understand what is going on with you or feel lost knowing how to help. It can be hard to open up about how you’re feeling—especially when you’re feeling depressed, ashamed, or worthless. It’s important to remember that many people struggle with feelings like these at one time or another. They don’t mean you’re weak intact accepting your feelings and opening up about them with someone you trust shows real strength. Could you write them a text or message? If you tell them in person then choose a time when they are not distracted or in a bad mood.
Bosslady9601
June 7th, 2019 2:52pm
You must remember there's nobody in this world that looks out for us as much as our parents does. They brought us up,nurted us and they know us inside out anyway. Therefore don't be afraid,they probably already picked up on some changes. Maybe they were even trying to do something about it. I suggest you start with the parent you are most comfortable to open up to. Pick a comfortable time and place that would give you time to talk about your issues. Maybe you could tell them while doing something you always do together. Most importantly remember to listen! You'don't be surprised at the difference this could make.
tranquilEnergy77
June 8th, 2019 12:03am
The best way to do that would be, to be in an already initiated pleasant conversation so that there is a feel good factor between the involved personnel. Then, you can calmly and emphatically speak your mind. Parents will respond and ask questions which might irritate but the need is to keep calm and understand their doubts. This way you would be able to resolve their doubts. An effective conversation always helps in getting the message across. When we try to share something we have got to realize that the other person has doubts and reservations of them own.
Parn442
July 7th, 2019 7:23pm
I think that there is no particular way to go about this. There are different situations different people are in and they have different kind of parents who would react differently to this kind of information. You need to assess all this and you would know your parents the best, so pick out the best time and place and tell them about your suffering. It would be better if you have kept a personal diary of some sort so that you could've noted down your miserable times and how exactly you were feeling and thinking about in that state. You could maybe show them to your parents and they might understand you a bit better by reading it. I know that it won't always be comprehensible for unaffected people, but at least they would know that there is something seriously wrong.
EmmaKay22
July 10th, 2019 3:47pm
If your parents haven’t already picked up on your changes already, you can simply ask them to have a chat and not speak or ask questions until you have finished what you have to say. Even if it’s as simple as,”I am not feeling like my typical self lately and I am scared it’s only going to get worse.” Sometimes, depression sneaks up slowly on us. It sends little hints that we choose to push away or ignore until it’s so heavy we no longer know how to get out. It’s ok to honestly say, I think I need help getting out of this funk. Depression is depression for a reason. If it was easy to heal from, it wouldn’t be labeled depression. If one was physically ill from cancer, for example, they would need medical attention. Same goes for depression. The earlier detected, the better!
generousJoy15
July 21st, 2019 5:25pm
Hi there, being depressed is never something to be ashamed about. I do understand your reservations though because of all the stigma surrounding depression. When telling your parents maybe try and make sure that you're not blaming them for your depression as they may feel like its an attack on them and their parenting, rather just let them know how you're feeling and what you think has made you feel that way. Try to use " I feel" messages as much as you can. I really hope that your parents are understanding and supportive, but if they arent try to understand that it can be very difficult for others to understand what you're going through and just be patient with them. Good luck, I hope that this has helped and it goes well.
genuineLove3661
August 8th, 2019 11:29am
You can tell your parents your depressed in many different ways. Sometimes when I find things hard to tell my parents I try write a letter telling them how I feel. I find that this way can be easier because sometimes sitting down and telling your parents face to face can be extremely nerve racking. If you find it easy to talk to your parents maybe sit them down and tell them you need to talk to them about something. Maybe try tell them your feeling a bit down lately and let the conversation flow from there. It is very brave and courageous to tell your parents how your feeling so you should be very proud of yourself
Bettiepage
August 28th, 2019 6:10am
Opening up to your family is always hard, but honest open communication is the only way to have a fulfilling relationship. If you aren’t comfortable seeking help from them right now you can always start with an adult you do feel comfortable with first. You should always reach out to a medical professional or helpline if you need help right away. Also sometimes writing down your thoughts and feelings can help organize things in your mind to make them easier to communicate to others. I hope this helped but always feel free to reach out here for any struggles you may have.
VisibleRayn
September 25th, 2019 8:19pm
Start it off on how you feel.. tell them you feel upset and depressed of somethings. Tell them things have been bothering you. Parents are there to support you and listen to you. They should provide full support at all costs. Telling your parents you feel depressed can really help build your relationship with them. My experience with telling my parents I feel depressed was a very hard time for me. I had to build up the courage to tell them how I felt. When I finally told them I was depressed they comforted me and offered me their support.
tranquilWings74
October 6th, 2019 6:28pm
you could prehaps wait untill there is a calm environment with no one else around and tell them you have something difficult to tell them regarding your well being and ask them to listen untill you are finished. If this is to difficult maybe you could write it in a letter,or even perhaps an email.Sometimes it helps to have a friend there with you in difficult times,or another family member that you can confide in. Your parents should be supportive and help you get the right treatment or therapy, your doctor is also someone that you can confide in.
brianna67
October 27th, 2019 7:57pm
I was very scared to tell my parents I was anxious. I thought I would be disappointing them or letting them down. I was scared of what their reaction would be. However, when we were all together, talking about a stressful, anxiety-inducing topic for me, I decided to go ahead and share the anxiety I'd been feeling. I was right in that they didn't fully understand it, but it was at least such a relief to have it off my chest. I suggest waiting until you are ready to discuss it and telling them in person. You could bring it up randomly or while talking about a similar topic.
KindHeart1010
December 1st, 2019 1:09am
Write down how you're feeling at the minute and pass them the note and go from there. They will talk to you kindly if they really care about how you're feeling. Ask them to refer you to a mental health service if you feel really bad as you can then talk to a stranger and you may feel more comfortable talking to someone you don't know about your feelings. If you go to school or college you can speak to a teacher or tutor, colleges should give you a specific support tutor you can talk to about things, talk to them and they'll ask you whether you'd want them to talk to your parents, say yes and then things will be easier for you that way if you have anxiety.
ohmydays10
December 1st, 2019 11:39am
Acknowledging the problem is the first step. if you already know and accept that you are depressed its a good start. First just be honest with them. Tell them how you feel and if you need help you can mention then as well. It's good if you are open and honest so you can address the issue and work on the plans to tackle it. You can ask if they have time so they won't be rushing. Maybe after dinner or when its quiet. Tell them exactly how you feel and ask for their help. Good luck and remember just try and be as honest and open as possible.
Anonymous
December 28th, 2019 7:54pm
Your parents are the most trust able people. parents don’t ever break your trust so just feel like they are your friends and tell them whatever is perplexing your mind and trust they are gonna give you best advice and you can seek help from them in the best way just go for it parents are the best helpers seek help from them they will give you the best advice since they want best for you love them and trust them even I got into depression as well and when I shared my grief with them they appreciated my effort and showed me the right path
Odunayo97
January 11th, 2020 8:53pm
You can start by seeking their advice on how to live a better life and how to cope with unpleasant feelings or try and ask them questions related to how they cope with unpleasant feelings in the past or you can just come straight and tell them how you are feeling.it allows them to better know how to treat the situation.it might seem awkward At first, especially if you dont have a good communication with your parents but in the end,it will be worth it because your parents knows more about real life experiences than we do and they are always willing to sacrifice anything to keep us happy.in all,talking to your parents about your depression is a big step to getting better
strawberrywaves
January 30th, 2020 10:11pm
Sit them down. Tell them that lately you have been feeling extremely down and you'd really appreciate it if they'd support you and help you in whatever way they can. If they don't take it seriously and think that you are just upset or tired, tell them that you feel like this the majority of the time and you want to be listened to. Tell them when this started happening and what made you feel like that (if you know why). Then after a little bit of easing into it, tell them. Say that you're depressed and ask to research into treatment.
Sci
February 2nd, 2020 9:30am
Please be open, honest, sincere, brave. You could tell a friend first, or a sibling, or another family member, and ask them to support you as you talk to your parents. It takes a lot of courage to reach out, but you'll feel better immediately after. Remember that they love you and they want to best for you. You're not disappointing them, they were always there for you and will continue doing so. Remember that you're not alone, and that seeking help when facing problems like depression is the best thing you can do. Reaching out is the first step toward serenity, and you deserve the best from your life. So, stay here and stay strong.
7cupswilliam
May 20th, 2020 3:20pm
I would tell them by being honest and sincere with your approach and the things you say. You may be surprised how understanding and loving your parents really are! If you are feeling anxious, I would make a checklist of each topic you want to discuss with your parents and some sub-topics for each topic. I would speak with the parents and ask them if you could set a time and place to speak with them regarding an important topic. Once that day arrives, get out your list of topics and sub-topics you wish to discuss and go through each one.
Anonymous
April 18th, 2020 8:04am
Why are you depressed? Facing extreme poverty? Got cheated in relation? Bullied in school or college?Has no job? Failed in several job interviews?Wants to be in love?Edge to get divorced?Got beaten by another? Sexually harassed by someone? Failed in exam? Can't manage to get admission because of poor grade? Has different sexuality? The environment you live isn't good?Worried about obesity? Then why are you depressed. Tell parents the reason of your depression. Parents will find a solution that will help you solve issues and when issues are solved you won't be depressed again. I hope you can find out your issue
veronica04
April 24th, 2020 9:19am
Go to your parents and let them know that u been dealing with something for a while now & that u think it's really been getting to u now and that u really need help with dealing with it because it has really put u in a Depressed situation and u don't know how to deal with it on your own. But most parents will know when something is going on with their child due to their mood changes and other etc. The best thing to do is go to your parents with the situation so a better outcome will occur or take place before your mind starts to trigger.
Anonymous
April 27th, 2020 6:02pm
Remember how safe you are with your parents. It's never easy to say something out loud, so maybe try practicing first in front of a mirror by yourself before hand. It may also help to try to tell them in a safe space, like your own room or living room. It could also be somewhere in public if you're worried about them having major reactions to the information. Just remember, you don't have to tell them at all if you really don't want to. Try your school counselor or friends if you think that thats easier. Just don't pressure yourself, go at your own pace.
jhappyflowwr
April 29th, 2020 8:16pm
First and foremost, you should realise when you are ready to tell them. You should be prepared and aware of what you want to tell them and how you want to do that. There are various ways of getting it across to your parents but you have to definitely use the one which works the best in your household. Understand your feelings and get them across. Connect with your parents. Don't dwell on what might say or how they might react but just remember that your parents will only want what's best for you and won't do anything that would negatively affect you knowingly. However, they might take some time to process and understand the way you're feeling and make sure you let them have that time.
WhiteNBlackFeather
June 14th, 2020 10:00pm
Hello Dear, Can you try to imagine a role play in front of a mirror, where you are the parent, and your reflection is your kid. Make up few questions, and try to respond them the way your parents would,.Try doing this a couple of times, until you are comfortable with what you want to say, and the responses that they will get you.I hope this helps. Your parents really need to know what you are going through, and they will feel trusted and loved, if you tell them.Its okay to feel depression. People get through it.I hope this helps.Good luck.
Misskhan01
June 19th, 2020 6:28am
It may seem hard to share personal feelings with parents, especially if you haven't done it in a while. It also can be hard to share when you're not really sure what's going on yourself. Sometimes parents can offer a new angle that helps you figure things out. Just talking about it might help you see things more clearly for yourself. Some people worry about how a parent might react. Will mom be mad? Will dad be disappointed? It's natural to worry, but most parents are supportive and understanding when they realize what's going on. If you're like most people, you probably wish your parent would start the conversation. Sometimes a parent will ask what's wrong. Much of the time, though, it's up to you