I am a 13-year-old girl from Pennsylvania, I have suffered from mental health issues since the age of 10 (Prime covid) I have clinical depression and ended up in a mental hospital in October of 2023 due to suicidal actions and self-harm. Trying to find ways to cope is extremely hard, I find myself burying my thoughts in books to hide the world’s reality, but of course, that isn’t too healthy. Listening to music and reading is my only escape. I love Lana Del Rey and A Good Girls Guide To Murder, but my favorite fantasy series is Divergent, something about Dystopian just makes me feel better, I also love The Walking Dead, and for some reason, theses thing I feel like are things a girl with my problems shouldn’t be reading and watching this stuff, but I do anyway. I just want to know if there are others who feel like me out there.
Ways To Help Yourself:
First and foremost, thank you for reaching out to TeenCentral and trusting us to tell your story. That is very brave of you. You should also be proud of yourself not only for asking for help and advice but acknowledging your strengths, that’s amazing.
Trying to find ways to cope is very hard, and yes am sure there are others out there that feel just as you do. However, you mentioned a few coping skills that work for you and that already is being ahead of the game. You mentioned listening to music and reading. That’s an amazing start.
If you ever feel like your coping skills are not working and need someone to talk to outside of your circle, please note you can always text the Crisis Text Line by texting “HOME” to 741741 or visiting the website. And if you ever feel like hurting yourself you can also contact The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Both are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Someone is always available and just a phone call or text away.
Something else to think about, is there a trusted person or adult in your life you can talk to? For example, a parent, family member or close friend. Someone you feel comfortable taking to and you feel listens to you. Another option could a trusted adult at school, maybe a teacher, advisor or guidance counselor. Just being able to get these feelings out to someone can help feel like a weight is lifted off your shoulders. This support might help you feel better and it’s a new coping skill to explore.
Where To Go From Here:
You already have great coping skills, if you are up for it here are some other copings suggestions that could help.
- Art – drawing or coloring could be a great outlet. There are intricate coloring books and arts and crafts such as creating a dream catcher. Check out this Dreamcatcher Board under the Tools tab.
- Writing/Journaling – putting your thoughts and feelings into words and writing them on paper can help express yourself whether you share your thoughts or keep them to yourself in a journal. Check out this Weekly Mood Tracker activity also under the Tools tab. It can help you keep track of you’re feeling and identify some triggers.
- Music – music can help sooth the mind and body when upset or stressed. Find music you like to listen to or music with messages you can relate to or inspire you.
Lastly, check out Positive Self-Talk Tools and Daily Positive Reminder. You are doing an amazing job, you got this, we are cheering for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out whenever you need us.
