Am I Depressed?

Lately, vie been feeling really depressed about little things that usually wouldn't bother me, and vie felt really sorry for myself (even when things are going pretty well).  i know vie been distant from my friends and vie stopped doing things that I used to love.  Im not usually an emotional person, but there are times when I'll cry over just about anything.  There are times though when I feel really great about small things and I forget whatever was bothering me before, but those times are short and not often.  I'm a 15 year old female, and I was wondering if im depressed or something.  What should I do?

thanks,
C

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

You might well be depressed; the symptoms you describe are typical of a depressive condition. The best thing would be to see a clinician who could help you figure out what is happening. Ask your parent(s) or guardian to arrange such an evaluation. You can say that you've been feeling pretty sad lately and you sense that something is wrong and you'd like to talk with someone about it. If it's hard coming up with a resource, perhaps your pediatrician can help or you (or your parents) can ask for suggestions through a guidance perosn at your school.