What's wrong with me?
For the past few months, I've been feeling super down, then normal with a few elated bits thrown in, then really upset. It is usually in that cycle, and he sadness can last for anywhere from a few minutes to weeks on end while the normal usually only lasts a few days. The elated bits only seem to appear while I'm feeling normal, and they only last for a few minutes to a few hours. I have no idea what's going on, can someone help?
This question was asked on 12th January 2016 and has been read 3014 times.
Answers (1)
Please don't think there's anything wrong with you! The year abroad is a really difficult time for a lot of people and everyone has ups and downs. Homesickness, living in a new place, coping with a different language or routine is really hard and everyone has difficult moments where they just want to pack up and go home. If these are just low points then try to spend time with friends, or find fun things to distract you. But if you are often feeling down so that you can't make the most of your time, it could be that you are suffering from depression. Don't feel bad or ashamed about this! I know a few people who have struggled at uni and have needed a bit of extra support and it's nothing to be ashamed of. Please reach out to a family member, friend, teacher or doctor, or maybe try an anonymous phone or online chat like Mind. Any of your teachers at your uni at home or abroad will listen and give you advice as they're trained to help students who are struggling. Talking to someone might just put everything in perspective which will make you feel better, or they might be able to provide counselling or medication, but do not feel ashamed or bad about yourself! This happens to millions of people and does get easier so please reach out to someone. I hope that helps and that you can enjoy the experience of studying abroad :)
If you would like to contribute to this question, please login or register.