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How do I tell my parents I'm depressed?

305 Answers
Last Updated: 03/19/2022 at 10:21pm
How do I tell my parents I'm depressed?
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Andrea Tuck, LCPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

I tackle and discuss a multitude of social and emotional health issues. I have a belief that through empowerment and non-judgmental support clients' can thrive.

Top Rated Answers
OpenListener32
November 13th, 2021 7:42am
It’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your parents and others in your circle about how you're feeling and what your needs are. Setting up a network is key, whether that be family or friends. If everyone is on the same page, they will be able to better understand what you are going through and provide the support you need. This can be a difficult conversation to have, so I recommend asking your parents to do their own additional research on depression so they can understand exactly what you are experiencing and the additional support options available to you.
Bre4Me
January 15th, 2022 5:37pm
I hope that your parents are understanding and accepting of mental health issues. This will make it easier for you to be open and honest with them about your depression. Depending upon which parent you feel closer to, I'd start by asking them to set aside a few minutes to talk to you. Once you're with them I'd just be open and honest about the fact that you're feeling depressed. Consider whether you're also asking them for help or if you just want them to know your feelings because they'll probably want to know what they can do for you. Remember, there's nothing to feel ashamed of here. Best wishes!
Anonymous
February 27th, 2022 9:56pm
Conversing with your folks about your downturn can welcome on a great deal of tension. You could stress that they won't view you in a serious way, or you may fear being demonized. Be that as it may, you can inform your folks by following a couple of key stages. To begin with, completely get ready for the discussion by getting educated on sorrow and your side effects. Then, at that point, plunk down for a discussion with your mother as well as father one-on-one. At last, let your folks in on how they can uphold you as you seek treatment for your downturn.
Anonymous
March 10th, 2022 1:05am
I would fist like to congratulate you for being at the step of reaching out to others close to you for support. This can be very challenging especially because we do not know how they will react. Usually you would want to start out in a neutral setting. Maybe in the car or during a meal is a good time to sit down one or both of your parents and talk to them about this. Keep in mind that they might not fully understand everything right away. You might have to explain some things to them. Different people react in different ways and different people show their concern in different ways.
Anonymous
March 19th, 2022 10:21pm
Dealing with depression, anxiety, or other big issues is hard. It’s even harder alone. Telling your parents you need help is the first step to feeling better. But having that conversation can feel like a big hurdle. Maybe you’re worried your parents won’t get it. Or that they’ll be disappointed in you. Remember it’s a parent’s job to help you and love you no matter what. They might have already noticed that you don’t seem yourself. Telling them can actually take a load off them because they’ll at least understand what’s happening. Parents often take it better than you’d expect... Pick a low-key moment when your parents are feeling relaxed to bring it up. You don’t want to be competing with siblings or a work call for their attention. Tell them how you’re feeling and how it’s affecting your life. Don’t worry about trying to explain why you feel this way. Then tell them you want to get help.