Down in the Dumps
By Gizem, age 13, England, United Kingdom
If you're upset about school, family problems, exams, money, or anything else, you can always solve your problems, however big or small. You should always know that you are not alone; there are other people who are in far worse situations than you are. Don't ever think that there is no hope and it's always going to be that way. If you do this the chances are your problems are going to get worse.
First of all, you should try to find the things that are good in life instead of looking for the negatives. Anyone can point out the bad things in life, but it takes a lot more to find the positives. Once you've found some values in life you'll start feeling just a little bit better every day.
Don't bottle it up. Tell someone close to you about your problems, either a friend or a member of your family - anyone you feel comfortable with will do. I know someone who bottled all their problems up and they went a little mental for a few years and had to have medication. Thankfully, they've now recovered.
Do not isolate yourself - this is probably the worst thing someone feeling depressed can do because you'll end up losing your friends and it will add to your problems. You will become an outsider and you really don't want that. You really don't want to be the loner in the class. Trust me, I've been there and it is not a good place to be.
Be strong, no matter what, and don't let go. Or at least look strong because if you don't you're likely to attract bullies. When you're walking never look down; always look ahead and walk confidently. When you're speaking, speak in a clear bold voice. Don't sound squeaky - this will make you sound weak. Make every action look strong; don't look like you're about to break down at any moment. If you look strong, soon enough you'll adapt to this and you'll actually become a stronger person.
Listen to some cheerful, inspiring music; it will make you feel much better.
Find a hobby or distraction. Join a club or start drawing - whatever takes your fancy. Find something you enjoy, a distraction from life. If you're a little overweight, try doing a sport; it will help you lose weight.
If your problem is with yourself and the way you are, like I said before, try and find good qualities within yourself instead of the bad. Who cares what other people think? To hell with them all! All that matters is to be accepted by yourself.
If all is lost and nothing I've said seems to be solving your problems I recommend you go see a counsellor. They're always glad to help and have helped many other people just like you in the past.
Remember, there is a solution to every problem. No matter what situation you're in don't give up. Everybody has bad times in their life but they come and go just like yours will. I've had a few problems during my life, both big and small, and they've all passed, and I look back at those memories. I'm happy that those things happened, because if they didn't, I wouldn't be the person I am today.
