How to ask parents for counseling?

Hi there,

I've been struggling for a while now with depression issues and just living life and dealing with my head, and I would really like to talk to someone about it all. I don't know how to ask my parents about getting counseling. I'm 19 and i've had counseling once or twice throughout my life. The last time I was regularly seeing a counselor I was having issues with my mother and she made me stop seeing the counselor because she felt like I wasn't ever talking to her about anything. She said that going to the counselor made me worse and made me focus on negative things, so I haven't been back since then. Sometimes she asks me what's wrong and I say there are lots of things I'm dealing with in my head, but she doesn't believe that and just says "What's wrong? Everything is good, you shouldn't have anything to worry about. You just need to relax". Even if I tried to explain to her whats going on, I don't think she'd understand; plus I'm not even totally sure what's going on. She thinks I'm supposed to be this happy, positive, little girl like I was in the past, and she freaks out now that I'm not always putting on a smile and burying my emotions. I need to ask for outside help but I'm afraid to because I know it will be a huge deal and it will probably just make things worse and add to the stress in both of our lives. What's the best way to do this?

Hii there friend!

I can't say I have much to go on about your mother from this post alone , but it sounds like she either a.)is a believer in positivism b.)doesn't believe in mental illness c.)both to varying degrees. Ya see, many people , especially those who are themselves not affected by depression , have a hard time understanding it. While being sad is something we all get , depression is a complex mixture of chemical imbalances , dietary deficiency , and external stressors , and anyone with a healthy mind will have trouble understanding what its like to live with.
That said , this is YOUR struggle , and remember to keep focus on that. Others are not the ones who have to live with this , that alone falls to YOU. So do whats best for you and continue seeking counseling. At 19 , you can call the local Mental Health Coop for free mental help , and they will even assist you in finding a ride. If your mother doesn't get that your depressed , have a doctor speak to her.
Good luck to you. If your ever have a problem don't hesitate to discuss it here. Much love.

Thanks EarthChild, you totally hit the nail on the head with my mom. She is definitely a believer in positivism and doesn't really like to believe in mental illness, she thinks you can push through it all.
I kinda broke down one day and talked to her, so we are now looking for a good counselor. Thank you for your reply, I appreciate it. Thanks!