What should I do if I'm 17 and feeling hopeless, depressed, and having daily headaches?

Question #29627

19 days ago

What should I do if I'm 17 and feeling hopeless, depressed, and having daily headaches? - #29627

Client_11fc69

hello doctor. i am 17 year old.....and i am feeling so hopeless and alone ....I feel very depressed. It’s been a year, and not a single day passes without me crying. I feel extremely lonely. I have headaches every day, and I prefer to stay distant from everyone. Even my parents are not supportive. I’ve tried a lot, but I’m still unable to heal from all of this....now my condition is that kind of worst mentally that i really dont want to live..

How long have you been feeling this way?:

- More than a year

On a scale from 1 to 10, how would you rate your feelings of hopelessness?:

- 10 (extremely severe)

Have you experienced any changes in your appetite or sleep patterns?:

- Decreased appetite/sleep

Do you have any support from friends or family members?:

- Not supportive

Have you had any thoughts of self-harm or suicide?:

- Yes, frequently

What activities do you usually enjoy or used to enjoy?:

- I don't enjoy anything anymore

Have you sought any help before for these feelings?:

- Talked to a friend or family member

300 INR (~3.53 USD)

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Doctors' responses

Dr. Arsha K Isac

I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.

19 days ago

Hello
I’m really sorry you’re feeling this much pain. Feeling hopeless, crying every day for a year, having daily headaches, and especially feeling like you don’t want to live are very serious signs of depression, most commonly a condition like Major Depressive Disorder. What you’re describing is not weakness or failure—it’s a medical and emotional condition that deserves real support and treatment.
Because you’re 17 and having frequent thoughts about not wanting to live, this is a situation where you should not handle it alone. The most important step right now is to get support from a real person as soon as possible. That could be a trusted adult such as a relative, teacher, school counselor, doctor, or another responsible adult—even if your parents feel unsupportive. If you ever feel like you might act on these thoughts or feel unsafe, you should seek urgent help immediately, such as going to the nearest hospital emergency department or contacting a crisis helpline.
Daily headaches are also very common in depression and chronic stress, especially when sleep and appetite are reduced. Treating the depression usually improves the headaches as well. Treatment can include counseling or therapy, lifestyle support, and sometimes medication, and many teenagers recover with the right help.
Right now, the key thing is safety and support. You deserve relief from this pain, and there are people whose job is to help you through exactly this kind of situation.
If you’re in India, you can reach confidential support anytime through organizations like Kiran Mental Health Helpline by calling 1800-599-0019, or AASRA at 91-9820466726. These services are free, confidential, and available even for young people.
Take care
Feel free to talk

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Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat

I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.

19 days ago

Hello
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way. It’s really important to talk to someone who can help you, like a mental health professional or a trusted adult. You don’t have to go through this alone, and there are people who can support you.
Feeling hopeless and alone can be incredibly tough, especially at your age. It’s okay to ask for help, and it’s a brave step to reach out. Please consider talking to a counselor or therapist who can provide you with the support you need.
If you’re in immediate distress or thinking about harming yourself, please reach out to a helpline or a trusted person in your life. You deserve to feel better and to have support. Remember, it’s okay to seek help, and you are not alone in this.
Thank you

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Dr. Aarav Deshmukh

I am a general physician with 8 years of practice, mostly in urban clinics and semi-rural setups. I began working right after MBBS in a govt hospital in Kerala, and wow — first few months were chaotic, not gonna lie. Since then, I’ve seen 1000s of patients with all kinds of cases — fevers, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, infections, you name it. I usually work with working-class patients, and that changed how I treat — people don’t always have time or money for fancy tests, so I focus on smart clinical diagnosis and practical treatment. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in preventive care — like helping young adults with early metabolic issues. I also counsel a lot on diet, sleep, and stress — more than half the problems start there anyway. I did a certification in evidence-based practice last year, and I keep learning stuff online. I’m not perfect (nobody is), but I care. I show up, I listen, I adjust when I’m wrong. Every patient needs something slightly different. That’s what keeps this work alive for me.

17 days ago

Your description suggests a serious psychological struggle alongside physical symptoms like daily headaches, which can manifest or worsen with stress, anxiety, or depression. It’s important to address these issues together and not ignore the psychological aspect. First, reaching out for professional help is crucial. A mental health professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist can provide both support and, if needed, therapy or medication to help you begin recovering from these depressive feelings. Speaking to a doctor about these daily headaches is also essential since they could either be a symptom of psychological distress or indicate an unrelated physical issue. A healthcare provider may recommend therapeutic options, lifestyle changes, or further investigation like imaging tests depending on the headaches’ characteristics. Take note of these symptoms’ circumstances: intensity, location, duration, or associated factors, as that might aid diagnosis. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or having thoughts of self-harm, contact emergency services or hotlines. It’s crucial to attend these feelings with urgency, as life quality and safety are priorities. In parallel, try to incorporate small, manageable self-care activities; establishing routines or connecting with things you enjoy could anchor you during therapy. Seeking support groups or online communities can provide a safe space to share without feeling judged or isolated. Remember, social support sometimes starts outside the home, and you deserve an environment that fosters well-being.

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Dr. Bharat Joshi

I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.

19 days ago

Hello dear
See you are a young male and definitely due to hormonal alterations these chances occur.
It is not abnormalities but anxiety do create problems
Iam suggesting some methods for improvement
Please follow them for atleast two months
Do physical exercise atleast half an hour daily for 5 months
Do meditation
Take good balanced diet for good health
Engage in social media
Indulge in hobbies like reading and writing
Avoid overthinking
Avoid junk food and alcohol/ smoking
Set your goals for every day
Hopefully improvement will occur
In case of no improvement in 2 month consult psychiatrist in person for better clarity
Regards

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Dr. Nirav Jain

I am a qualified medical doctor with MBBS and DNB Diploma in Family Medicine from NBEMS, and my work has always been centered on treating patients in a complete, not just symptom based way. During my DNB training I rotated through almost every core department—Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Emergency medicine. That mix gave me the skill to manage acute illness, long term disease and preventive care together, something I find very important in family practice. In psychiatry I worked closely with patients who struggled with depression, anxiety, stress related problems, insomnia or substance use. I learned not just about medication but also about simple psychotherapy tools, psycho education and how to talk openly without judgement. I still use that exp in family medicine, specially when chronic disease patients also face mental health issues. My time in General surgery included assisting in minor and major procedures, managing wounds, abscess, sutures and emergencies. While I am not a surgeon, this gave me confidence to recognize surgical cases early, provide first line care and refer fast when needed, which makes a big difference in online or OPD settings. Now I work as a consultant in General medicine and Family practice, with focus on both in-person and online consultation. I treat conditions like fever, infections, gastrointestinal complaints, respiratory illness, and also manage diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle related chronic diseases. I see women for PCOS, contraception counseling, menstrual health, and children for common pediatric issues. I also dedicate time to preventive health, lifestyle counseling and diet-sleep-exercise advice, since these small changes affect long term wellness more than we often realize. My key skills include holistic diagnosis, evidence based treatment, chronic disease management, mental health support, preventive medicine and telemedicine communiation. At the center of all this is one thing—patients should feel heard, safe, and guided with care that is both professional and personal.

19 days ago

Hi… I’m really sorry that you’ve been going through this. What you’re describing sounds very heavy and exhausting, and feeling this way every day for a year can make anyone feel hopeless. I want to be very clear about one thing first that If you are having thoughts about not wanting to live, this is serious and you deserve immediate support. You should not handle this alone. Your symptoms suggest a severe depressive episode. This is a medical condition, not a weakness, and it is treatable. Please reach out to someone immediately today like A trusted adult (relative, teacher, school counselor), A doctor or psychiatrist or A mental health helpline in your area. If you feel like you might act on these thoughts then Go to the nearest hospital or emergency department immediately or ask someone to take you. You are not alone, even if it feels that way.
I understand you said your parents are not supportive, but please still try to Speak to any one safe adult or Even a teacher or school authority can help connect you to care. Daily headaches can be related to Ongoing stress and depression, Poor sleep or Emotional strain. They usually improve when the mental health condition is treated. With proper help, doctors can offer Counselling/therapy, Medications if needed or Support systems to help you feel safe and heard. Many people in similar situations do recover and feel better with treatment.
Small steps for now- Try not to stay completely alone, be around people even if you don’t talk much. Maintain basic routine (eat small meals, try to sleep). Avoid isolating yourself completely in your room. If thoughts get intense, distract yourself immediately (music, walking, calling someone). Right now, your mind is telling you that things won’t improve, but that is a symptom of depression, not reality. Your life has value, and this phase can be treated.
Feel free to reach out again.
Regards,
Dr. Nirav Jain
MBBS, D.Fam.Medicine

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Dr. Nikhil Chauhan

I am currently working as a urologist and kidney transplant surgeon at Graphic Era Medical College & Hospital, Dehradun. It's a role that keeps me on my toes, honestly. I handle a pretty wide range of urology cases—stones, prostate issues, urinary tract obstructions, infections, you name it. Some are straightforward, others way more complex than you expect at first glance. Every patient walks in with a different story and that’s what keeps the work real for me. Kidney transplant surgery, though, that’s a whole different zone. You’re not just working on anatomy—you’re dealing with timelines, matching, medications, family dynamics, emotional pressure... and yeah, very precise coordination. I’m part of a team that manages the entire transplant process—from evaluation to surgery to post-op care. Not gonna lie, it’s intense. But seeing someone who’s been on dialysis for years finally get a new shot at life—there’s nothing really like that feeling. In the OR, I’m detail-focused. Outside of it, I try to stay accessible—patients don’t always need answers right away, sometimes they just need to feel heard. I believe in walking them through what’s going on rather than just giving reports and instructions. Especially in transplant cases, trust matters. And clear, honest conversation helps build that. Urology itself is such a misunderstood field sometimes. People ignore symptoms for years because it feels “awkward” or they think it’s not serious until it becomes unmanageable. I’ve had patients who came in late just because they were embarassed to talk about urine flow or testicular pain. That’s why I also try to make the space judgment-free—like whatever it is, we’ll figure it out. At the end of the day, whether I’m scrubbing in for surgery or doing OPD rounds, I just want to make sure what I do *actually* helps. That the effort’s not wasted. And yeah, some days are frustrating—some procedures don’t go clean, some recoveries take longer than they should—but I keep showing up, cause the work’s worth doing. Always is.

17 days ago

I hear you, and I need you to take this very seriously. You are 17, feeling hopeless, crying daily, with frequent thoughts of not wanting to live. This is a medical emergency.
What you must do right now:
1. Call a suicide prevention helpline immediately – it’s free and confidential:
· India: iCall – 9152987821 (available 8 AM–10 PM) or 988 (national helpline)
· AASRA – 9820466726 (24/7)
· Snehi – 011-65978180
2. Tell a trusted adult today – a school counselor, teacher, school nurse, or any relative who listens. If your parents aren’t supportive, find someone else.
3. Go to the nearest Emergency Room – tell them “I want to hurt myself” or “I don’t want to live.” They will keep you safe and start treatment.
Why you feel this way (medically):
· Severe depression – hopelessness, crying daily, loss of pleasure, suicidal thoughts. This is a brain chemistry problem, not a personal failure.
· Daily headaches – very common in teenage depression (tension-type or migraine). Treating depression often stops the headaches.
· No support – makes everything harder, but you can still recover with professional help.
What treatment works for someone your age:
· Talk therapy (CBT or IPT) – helps change negative thought patterns
· Antidepressant medication (SSRIs like fluoxetine, escitalopram) – safe for teens under doctor supervision
· Family therapy – to help parents understand what you’re going through
These treatments are highly effective. Most teens feel significantly better within 6–8 weeks.
What to do tonight:
· Remove access to anything you could use to harm yourself
· Stay near someone – even just being in the same room as a friend online can help
· Call a helpline before going to sleep
You matter. This feeling can and will change with help. Please make that call or go to the ER now.
— Dr. Nikhil Chauhan

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Dr. Shayeque Reza

I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.

16 days ago

Feeling this level of loneliness, daily crying, headaches, and losing interest in everything for so long is a heavy burden, and the fact that you’re having thoughts about not wanting to live shows how overwhelmed you’ve been—it’s not something you should have to handle alone. What you’re describing is very consistent with Depression, and it is treatable, even if it doesn’t feel like it right now. The most important step is to reach out for immediate support—if you can, please tell a trusted adult (relative, teacher, school counselor) or contact a local mental health helpline right now, especially since you’re having frequent thoughts of self-harm. If those thoughts feel strong or you feel unsafe, please go to the nearest hospital or emergency service without delay. You deserve help, care, and to feel better, even if your current environment is not supportive. Alongside professional help, try small steps like not isolating completely, keeping a simple routine, and expressing your feelings through writing or talking to someone safe. With the right support—therapy, and sometimes medication—people in similar situations do improve significantly. You are not alone in this, even if it feels that way right now, and there are people who want to help you through this.

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