More than a little lost...

I'm 20. I've been suffering from...something...for almost three years now.  I've never seen a doctor for it because I've either written it off as something superficial, or been disbelieved by my parents, who, at the moment, provide my insurance.  What I'm trying to figure out once and for all is...what is it likely that I'm dealing with?

I've done *alot* of reading and research, but what I'm never sure about is what is considered to be 'severe enough' symptoms to suggest dysthymia or mild depression.  I know I have a bunch of the symptoms, but not all of them.  I had a really, really bad break up a year ago, and I don't know if I should just be blaming most of my problems on that.  Is it normal to get depressive symptoms after a break up, or should I be concerned?  If I have some 'highs', does that suggest anything related to bipolar disorder, or is that just the contrast between my depressed days and my good days? I'd like to have as good a picture as possible of what is ailing me--depression, dysthymia, or melodrama--before I have to visit a doctor, because as I said, my parents are against it right now.

[ladyinwhite]

hi there, normally people get depressed after a break up,,but if it lasts for 6months up to 2 years, it may not be good.. try to spend time with friends and family,, go out and move on, though it's quite hard, but i think your family and friends will support you on that, you're worrying too much,, try to have activities than can divert your attention,, keep yourself busy so you may not think about your break up,. there are a lot of great things out there. and you might meet someone, someone meant for you. there are so many fishes on the sea, you're not just trying to find one,,

[birdie0907]

It is natural that your parents disbelieve that you are depressed. They are not medical professionals and probably do not have any experience with depression. Family can be helpful, depending on the situation, but it is up to a medical professional to make any diagnosis determining if you really are depressed.
3 years is a long time to feel not right, so you should take whatever steps you can to resolve the situation. If you are just not happy, as opposed to clinically depressed, there are many therapies that can help you. Cognitive behavior therapy, meditating, studying philosophy, or an interesting volunteer job are just a few. If you become diagnosed as clinically depressed, you will probably need meds for relief (at least temporarily).
I take it that you don't have access to a counselor or psychiatrist from your comment that parents provide the insurance. If you can't find a professional to evaluate your situation, perhaps check out the library to find if any therapies such as the above can help.
Write back.

[mammo]

It is normal to have highs and lows in life no matter what has happened, but especially with a break-up.  You should be seeing more "good days" than "bad".  If not, you may need to see someone.  You need to have your parents support on this since they have the insurance,  is it possible for you to get a diagnosis and show your parents?  Is there a clinic you can go to for help?

[LadyG835]

It could also possibly be an Adjustment Disorder, which is triggered by a stressful, life-changing event. Visit my journal for definition and symptoms.