a link maybe?

[sazzy91]

I am at a loss as to what to do to myself - i've been sufferring what I feel to be bouts of depression, anxiety, mood swings. Sometimes minor, sometimes very traumatising episodes.
They're starting to be alot more frequent than usual. They're really getting in the way of both my social life and my school work and i'm worried that left unaddressed, it will get worse.
Is it worth me going to my Gp? or will i be dismissed as an angsty teen?

[Ted A Grossbart, Ph.D.]

Definitely get help.  The question is what is the best way.  

If your GP seems to be tuned to emotional stuff that can be a great route.  A school counselor or psychologist can work well.  I'm wondering if you have reason to suspect your parents may not respond sympathetically or effectively?  Insurance/payment may suggest going one route or another, do you know the details on that?  

Certainly some of that comes with being a teen but there is no reason to suffer that level of distress.  Keep pushing, researching, trying until you get the help you need.  While medication may be part of treatment, don't stop with that alone.  You really need a expert to talk to.

tg

[Ted A Grossbart, Ph.D.]

Much appreciated, go for it.

tg

[Fable]

I've only just joined here, and I'm not sure of the protocols, but there is a link to the Connexions website I could paste on here for Sazzy. It's a start, and it's specifically for young people.
Would it be ok to post it?

Fable ..

[Ted A Grossbart, Ph.D.]

I didn't realize you were in the UK, so that should solve the insurance question.   I believe school psychologists/counselors are less common over there.   Sounds like your GP would be a great next move.  That should do it, if not come back for more ideas.

tg

[sazzy91]

My mum is going through alot too - I dont want to put this on her aswell. She's undergoing treatment for cervical cancer.

I assumed everything in the UK was an NHS matter, i certainly dont have the means to pay for any kind of help.

How do I approach this kind of thing with a teacher? Self diagnosed "depression" is no rare thing in high school - not labelling every claim as attention seeking but I know it's thrown about much more than it really needs to be. I worry that letting this kind of thing get out will be met with as much skeptisism as my friends have shown me.

I'm too reserved to be assertive with myself - possibly a vicious circle.