How can I know if I am depressed or just feeling sad and if I can be okay on my own without help?

Hi Eloise,

Thank you for asking your question. I'm sorry that you are struggling. Let me try my best to help you.

Sadness and depression seem to go hand-in-hand, but depression is a deeper form of sadness.  When someone is depressed, they often have a hard time getting out of bed, going to work, doing things they need to do (ie- not wanting to brush their teeth or take a shower). They lose desire and interest in activities they once loved and may affect their eating habits.  They sometimes cry a lot or become numb to emotions.  They may also over-sleep or not sleep at all.  Do these symptoms relate to you?

It seems like you are having a difficult time adjusting to your new surroundings.  It is very hard to move to another country, let alone, be away from your parents for the first time in your life.  Moving can be hard on anyone, so try and be kind to yourself.  

It might be good to get involved in some social activities at school to try and get out of this funk.  Sometimes, making connections with new people can help in establishing a new sense of belonging.  If you are at a university, maybe get an on-campus job at the cafeteria, etc. so you can meet other students or join a fun social group.   Also, your school may have free counselors to students who attend there.  It might be good for you to talk to someone about how you are feeling to help you adjust.  It could help if you journaled your feelings or maybe make an Instagram/blog of your new adventures to try and help other people who may want to visit where you are living.

It takes about six months to one year to completely adjust to a new environment.  So, allow some breathing time.  It might be good for your parents to come and visit you and if all else fails, you can always go back home.   Either way, I hope this helped you and you are able to survive your first year of college.  That is the hardest year and that alone, requires a lot of adjustment.

I wish you nothing but the best on your journey and I hope you feel better soon.