What It Really Feels Like: A Teen’s Journey with Anxiety and Depression

Post authored by: Amulya Tirumala (Limitless Foundation Marketing Manager)

Originally Published: February 24, 2025

Mental health challenges like anxiety and depression often go unnoticed or unspoken, especially when they start at a young age. In this interview, a young woman shares her honest and personal experiences. By opening up about her journey, she hopes to help others feel less alone and encourage those who are struggling to reach out for support.

When did you first start noticing symptoms of anxiety or depression?

I noticed symptoms of anxiety when I was in about 2nd grade and depression was in 6th grade.

How would you describe what anxiety or depression feels like to someone who hasn’t experienced it?

Anxiety is like you wake up and immediately think something is wrong. Some mornings I don’t realize my dreams were dreams and I would get so stressed that someone was hurt in real life, so I have to check that they are okay. You feel this pressing weight that something will go wrong and you can’t do anything about it.

What was the hardest part of your experience?

The hardest part is the urge of shutting everyone out because you’re convinced you’re a burden. You start to believe that your presence drains people, that your problems are too much, and that you’re better off dealing with everything alone. Even when people try to help, it’s hard to let them in because part of you feels guilty for needing support in the first place. It becomes this cycle of isolation that makes things worse.

What helped you the most when you were struggling?

My friends not leaving my side and constantly reassuring me in my times of need. Knowing they were there, even when I wasn’t at my best, reminded me that I wasn’t alone.

Who or what has been your biggest support system?

My sister has been my biggest supporter from the beginning. She has always offered me support and love.

Were there any coping strategies that didn’t work for you?

So many methods were unsuccessful, counting down from 5, box breathing, affirmations, and stating things you know are true. In the moment, they felt forced and almost frustrating, like I was trying to convince myself of something my brain wouldn’t believe.

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How did your mental health impact your day-to-day life (school, work, relationships)?

It ruined some of my friendships. My friends can only handle so much of my personal issues until it becomes too much for them. I lost my best friend when I was at a low point because I entirely stopped talking to her and didn’t answer her.

How did you find the right resources or support?

I went to my family doctor to get diagnosed and prescribed the correct medication to help me. Having someone explain what was going on in my mind and offer a plan to treat it gave me a sense of hope and control.

How do you take care of your mental health now?

I talk to my mom and my doctor more often about my struggles and how to handle them. Opening up regularly has helped me feel less alone and more supported. They help me work through what I’m feeling and figure out healthy ways to cope, which has made a huge difference in how I manage everything.

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What advice would you give to someone who may be struggling?

Ask for help. It is hard and scary to do, but it is what is best for you. It may be difficult to talk to your family about these issues but they always want what’s best for you. Also remember, the people who stay with you are your real friends. If they truly love you at your best, being at your worst will not affect that.

If you or a loved one is experiencing similar struggles. Please check out resources such as:

– National Alliance on Mental Illness

– JED Foundation

– Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine