Therapy didn’t work for me and I’ve stopped going. Recently, I find myself feeling worse and worse and I still think about self- harm or suicide- I’ve even done it within the last 6 months. How do I ask for them (medication)? I’m only 14 so I feel like I wouldn’t be able to go on them, but I want to since therapy didn’t work. How bad does it have to be for me to be eligible?
CONSIDER THIS:
- It sounds like you’re going through a very difficult and confusing time. Asking for help can be the first step in feeling better and it shows strength that you are trying again after therapy did not go how you hoped it would.
- No one is too young to struggle with depression or to get help, but suicide and self-harm are never the answer. The best was to determine the right course of action is to speak with an in-person professional.
- Therapy is not an immediate fix but continuing to talk to someone will likely help, or they can direct you to someone who can.
- It’s important that you reach out to a trusted adult to discuss how you’re feeling. It could be a teacher, parent, religious leader, extended family member, etc.
- Check out the list of resources on the Teencentral.com. You can always call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. It’s available 24 hours a day, everyday.
HELP YOURSELF:
- What would happen if you spoke with your therapist about your interest in medication and why you feel like therapy isn’t working?
- How do you feel about reaching out to a school psychologist? What do you have to lose?
- When you are feeling suicidal or want to self-harm, who is that person you can reach out to for support? Your parents or a close friend?
- What things make you feel more relaxed or can even help you smile? Music, a funny show, a warm bath?
