Extremely social and outgoing, why do i feel empty inside?

[Anonymousthought]

Hello everyone, I am 18 and recently started university. I have a girlfriend and a very active social life, yet I feel depressed and empty quite often. This feeling isn`t new, I`ve had a similar on and off feeling of emptiness for around 5 years. The thing I don`t understand is that when I`m with people I`m the loudest most outgoing person there, people think i`m funny, social interactions seem to distract me from any sad thoughts. My concern is that recently I`ve been sad more often than not, and have been feeling numb most of the time, even during social interactions or time with my girlfriend. Though I have no specific plan, and have no real intention I don`t think of killing myself... the thoughts come up quite frequently, often multiple a day. What should I do?

[Crystal413]

For some people, going off to college can be stressful even if you don't realize it. It's an adjustment. You were right in recognizing that being with your friends is a distraction. When your alone and it's quiet is when you allow yourself to think and feel your sadness. It sounds like as the time passes you are also recognizing your sadness. The distraction is not as strong as it was. You mentioned some depression in your past. I'm not sure if you were treated then but as you can see as you have gotten older, it is still with you and maybe even a little stronger. It really is time to get some help before the depression worsens and you can't function. You might just respond to a little help and that is all you need. Since this started 5 years prior, it is unlikely that it will disappear by itself. My suggestion would be to talk to a therapist and a psy dr. Maybe just therapy will work or maybe you need a med too. My sons college has a medical staff on campus. Does yours? If not, your closest town should have mental health services, some are based on your income which for you it would be free and some take insurance too if your still on your parents insurance policy. I would start at the University first, make sure it is a therapist and not an intern. If you do have insurance you can just go into town or the closest city and make your two appts. I really recommend seeing both. My son had to do this and it helped him a lot. The important thing is to be honest and open with your feelings so that you can get the right treatment and the best treatment for yourself. Never be afraid to ask for help and to talk to those close to you. Have you talked to your parents? Do they know there is an issue going on? If that is a possibility than that would be another avenue for help. I am thankful my son shared that he was having a problem. If you don't feel comfortable opening up you could just give them the cliff notes to start with. Don't wait to get help, things can spiral out of control before you know it. I'm glad you are reaching out on this site and it sounds like your ready to get the help you need. Wishing you well at the University and for taking the first step. You will feel better, it just takes time and a little work. Crystal413

[bambi233]

Good luck,the only thing you need help with is whether it is a psychological or psychiatric disorder.In either case,early intervention helps in the road to recovery.

[thatquietgirl]

Go get help.  See a therapist to talk about what you are experiencing.  Try journaling.  Talk to your girlfriend about what you are experiencing but be sure to make sure she knows she's not causing it.  You've made a great first step coming here to ask for help.  I really feel talking to someone is a necessary thing, especially a professional trained to teach you different things to help yourself overcome this like a therapist and a psychiatrist are.

Hang in there!

[christineyvette]

I hope someone answers this cause I'm 22 and I feel the SAME way.