For anyone struggling with a mental illness or tough time I would so highly recommend seeing a therapist.
I know for some that could come with a stigma and may think "I don't need to see a shrink, only crazy people do that." Or "that would be embarrassing." And I know this may be heightened if you are in middle school or high school. But seriously, it's worth it. And no, not only 'crazy people' go to therapy. I'm willing to bet people in your life that you interact with everyday have gone and/or do go to therapy on a regular basis. And I really dislike that there is any stigma with getting help. If someone makes fun of you for getting the help you need then they are stupid, like literally, and not worth your time. Screw them. You do you and focus on what you need to get better.
Now, if/when you decide to seek out therapy remember this, there are tons of therapists out there and more then likely there are plenty in your area, so if you don't get along or like or feel like you will be able to trust the first therapist you meet, try another one. Also, don't be afraid to ask for a phone interview or consultation, this will give you a chance to talk with them and get a feel for them before going in to see them.
Another tip I have is check out their web site (if they have one) or read reviews about them (if there are some). This will also give you an idea on what this therapist specializes in and what this therapist has delt with before. If you know what you are struggling with, for example I knew I wanted someone who had a specialty for anxiety and panic disorders, that may help you in finding a therapist.
All in all, therapy is, in my own option based on my own expirence, the best chance at recovery and getting better and staying better.
While in therapy or if you see a doctor about what you are struggling with, they may suggest some medication. Now, I can only speak from my personal expirence, and I have found that some medications work, but while it may work it can be a pain, in my case the medication I took that was a pain was a pain because it made me feel numb, not happy but not horribly sad, just... Blah. It wasn't fun. But then I've also taken a medication that did it's job and wasn't a pain.
When it comes to medication you really will have to sit down with your therapist and your family and do some soul searching and figure out if it's really for you. Everyone and every case is different. But one thing I would suggest is that if your doctor or therapist want you to go on a medication, do research on said medication before taking it. Know how it works, how it effects your body and mind, and know what the side effects are. Some side effects can be serious, even dangerous and life threatening, and really need to be watched for, so you need to be aware of side effects.
One thing that I've found that really helps in my recovery is keeping a journal. In my journal I track my feelings, thoughts, and panic attacks. I track anything I may want or need to bring up to my therapist. But at the same time it's really freeing to just release everything I'm going through and get it out in some form. And as you start getting better it's good to be able to see your progress.
If you don't want to carry around a physical book or paper, then you can be all modern and use your phone or tablet. There are apps out there for this. For thoughts and events I use a physical journal personally, but for emotions there are two apps I use, T2 Mood Tracker and Moody Me, both are wonderful and I've found to be helpful in tracking my emotions, which for bipolar is important to recovery. If you have any kind of mood disorder I'd suggest getting an app or journal and really keep track of what you are feeling everyday.
Lastly, if you ever find yourself feeling really down and/or have thoughts of hurting yourself, hurting someone else, killing yourself, or you just don't have any hope and you need to talk to someone call a crisis hotline right away! They will talk things out with you and listen and help you. This is Lifeline's number, 1-800-273-TALK, they also have a website, suicidepreventionlifeline.org, if you or anyone you know should need help.
My point here is, don't be afraid to find the help you need. You are worth it. Your happieness is worth it. There are plenty of options when it comes to getting help so you surly can find one that will work for you that you will feel comfortable with. You can do this.
Keep fighting.
Stay strong.
