mptoms of depression), and will help you explore the things in your life that are making you feel unhappy.
- Like you, some people who feel depressed also think about ways to hurt or kill themselves, or some think about hurting other people. That's why you may be asked questions like, "Do you ever feel like you don't want to live anymore?" "Do you have a plan to hurt yourself?" "Have you ever attempted suicide in the past?" "How long have you been feeling this way?"
- After talking with the counselor for one session, which typically lasts about 45 minutes to one hour, you will determine together if or when you need to come back. You may also talk about fees for services, people you can call in an emergency, and your schedules.
- If the therapist thinks that another clinician would be able to help you more than s/he can, s/he'll refer you to that professional. This does not mean that the therapist doesn't like you or that s/he isn't a skilled therapist. S/he wants to make sure you get the most appropriate help possible — for example, someone who works well with depressed clients, or takes your kind of insurance.
The counseling center on your campus, or in your community, is a good place to talk about some of your feelings. No one has to feel as though s/he doesn't want to live. Now that you're more familiar with the counseling process, do you feel more empowered to take that next brave step and get help? Could you talk with others that may have seen a counselor in the past? Perhaps get a recommendation from a friend, family member, teacher, religious/spiritual advisor, etc.? With the assistance of a professional, your friends, family, church or synagogue, and perhaps some medication, you can feel better.
Here are some resources that may be helpful:
- Mental Health Net
- American Psychological Association
- American Psychiatric Association
- National Association of Social Workers
For many people, taking the first step to meet with a counselor is often the most difficult part. Know that you are not alone in your feelings, and that help is available. You've taken a big step by reaching out here. Stay strong!Alice!