Depression Health Center

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Is what I'm feeling depression or just loneliness?

The only way to find out for sure is to see your doctor.

Question:

Sometimes I get super lonely and sad. Lately I've noticed that this is quite frequent around my period, but it happens at other times too, and it lasts way too long for me to be comfortable with. Would you suggest getting help, or just getting over my loneliness somehow? I find it hard to make people like me or want to be around me. It is not that I push anyone away or aggravate people; it just seems that the only time I am with someone is when they need me, or I plan something and they had nothing better to do so they actually show up. I don't know. I am just tired of being lonely and taking myself too seriously. It doesn't feel good.

Answer:

It could be depression, but to be really sure, it is wise to see your regular health care provider to make sure there are no other medical issues going on. While in the office, you can talk about how you feel. It may be possible that (if this is depression) your provider may prescribe an antidepressant that will work for you.

I highly recommend therapy as well. A counselor can help you uncover some of the issues surrounding your feelings of loneliness and help you develop a behavioral plan to address these issues.