How to Talk to Someone Online About Depression

Depression can be a scary illness to battle with, if you are unsure of how to handle it. Many people feel embarrassed admitting that they are depressed or lonely. If you are too shy to talk with people face-to-face about your feelings, there are online opportunities that can be of help to you. The first step in dealing with your depression is understanding it. Depression can affect people of all ages and races at any point in life. There is no shame in being one of the many who suffer from depression.

Instructions

• 1

  Join an online chat room for depression sufferers. Many of these chat rooms are safe and full of people who are looking for support and those who want to offer it. A chat room is a great outlet for depression sufferers, as you can gain feedback from others who are in your position and from those who may have overcome the illness. Chat rooms of this type have moderators to keep out bullies, or people who use chat rooms for fun instead of serious conversation.

• 2

  Work with an online counselor. Many counselors nationwide are starting online services, so that they can reach patients who may be states away. This is especially helpful if you live in a rural area. Online counseling can be just as helpful and is ideal for people who may work long hours. Organizations such as, Live Person, have counselors on duty 24 hours a day. Customers are allowed to pay per session, so that they can try out the service to see if it is ideal for them. Also, customers are allowed to remain anonymous, so they don't have to worry about anyone recognizing them.

• 3

  Join an online support group. Befrienders Worldwide is a support group that offers help to anyone worldwide who is willing to ask. The support group is free and full of caring individuals who are ready and willing to listen to whatever problem that you may be having. All volunteers are specially trained and will communicate with you via whatever form that you would like; whether it be online chat or snail mail. The group is also non-political and non-religious.