Q:
I'm a 22 year old female. My brother (who is now 27) had Ewing Sarcoma (bone cancer in his C2 and C1 vertebrae) four years ago and now it's back in a spot that is in-operable as of yet, chemo sessions have began and my family is going through a lot. I'm extremely emotional, and tired all the time and just don't have a lot of energy. I've had thoughts for the past few years that I've been depressed but then I think maybe that makes crazy or I'm just being an attention seeker? I've had thoughts that things might be better if something would happen to me, and that I sometimes I just don't want to be here; but I'd never harm myself I would never commit suicide. I'm a senior at WWU, I'm working two jobs and I feel like a breaking point is coming soon. I need help but really don't want to depend on anti-depressants or counselors. I'm sick of being sad and sick of being tired. What can I do, what should I do? I'm considering getting on meds but don't want to rely on them or let anyone know that I'd be taking them; on the outside everything seems to be okay, but inside I know something is not quite right. Thank you for your time.
A:
You have considerable stressors simply being a senior working two jobs but add your brother's very serious illness on top of that and your depression is very understandable.
It isn't clear why you wouldn't access counseling help when things are so overwhelming but that is crucial to your well-being and medications (which are non-addicting) can make a huge difference in your mood, perspective and energy level. You can come to the Counseling Center (650-3164) or to the Student Health Center for initial evaluation and it is completely confidential. We work together to help students with their stress and coping with such difficult times as you are going through.
~The Doc
