How do I tell my school counselor that I’ve been feeling anxious and depressed? I know what to say generally, but not how to really start the conversation. I don’t want to be super blunt about it.

What if you started the conversation by saying you need to talk about some problems you're facing? And then let the school counselor know what you have been experiencing by saying I've been feeling anxious and depressed lately. You could let the school counselor know what has activated your anxiety and depression. I think just starting it by letting them know you're facing or dealing with some problems is a way to start it without saying I have anxiety and depression. You could also start by talking to the counselor about what is contributing to your feelings--specific events or problems that are leading to these feelings. The counselor might ask you about how you feel about the contributing factors, giving you the opportunity to tell them that they make you anxious and depressed.

I understand that. I went through something similar recently, and I just came in and started the conversation with “hey, something has been on my mind a lot, can we talk?” After that it is easier, they are trained to ask questions that will help you open up. The conversation can start by being about anything, and generally it will naturally flow to what you really need to talk about. You can also talk about how your symptoms have been affecting your life, and that will help them understand what’s going on without you actually having to come out and say that you are depressed. It’s hard to go in at first, but once you start talking, hopefully it will get easier!

You know what? It's totally okay if you're super blunt about it - at the end of the day it's important that you do tell them; however you go about it. Sidenote: they are totally used to it! Other ways that you might want to bring it up is to write it down, bring someone in with you or prepare what you want to say beforehand. There's no right or wrong way to tell your counsellor.

You could start off by expressing how your anxiety and depression is/could be affecting your school life. Some examples are, "I feel that my personal issues are/could be affecting my school performance." "I feel concerned about my well-being and how that could negatively affect my grades/academic life." Or you could get straight to the point and say, "I need help dealing with anxiety and depression." "I've been feeling anxious and depressed lately and I'd like your help." I wish you all the best! :]

I think the best way is to just tell the truth. Tell your counselor what you have been feeling and experiencing. Ask for some guidance and help along the way. Maybe start the conversation by saying "I have been feeling....." Try to find the root of the problem, think is there anything in particular that makes you feel this way? Or anybody? Ask your counselor for some advice on how you could feel less anxious.. There is nothing wrong with asking for a bit of help and guidance along the way. I'm sure your counselor will be happy to help you!