Ask Me Help Desk - How to tell a friend about depression

I used to be depressed before I met my best friend, 4 years ago. She has never known I was bullied, or depressed. I really think that I should tell her, as she tells me everything, but I'm afraid she might think that I may go back to being depressed. Are there any ways to tell her, but that I'm not depressed anymore?

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Originally Posted by imahexadactyl

I used to be depressed before I met my best friend, 4 years ago. She has never known I was bullied, or depressed. I really think that I should tell her, as she tells me everything, but I'm afraid she might think that I may go back to being depressed. Are there any ways to tell her, but that I'm not depressed anymore?

Your actions will speak louder than words especially in this case.

Don't worry be happy.:D

As a psychology student, and a person with a similar history, it is most important to judge this question for yourself. If you have a strong relationship with this person, they simply will not assume you will go back to your weaker mental state. The key in telling her for the first time that you have a history of depression is to explain ways you have dealt with it to get to where you are today. Also, its much easier to share this with a friend in a quiet setting where she, too, may also open up about something that she's been reluctant to tell you.

You never know who your true friends are until they see you at your weakest state. Since you're a healthy individual now, there is nothing for her to judge you by than what she knows of you as a person today.

When I told my friends my history for the first time, they were nothing but supportive. You'll be fine, and will probably feel a huge sigh of relief once you get it off your chest.
Remember, you're only as honest as you make yourself- so don't hold it in.

Chances are that you and your friend are pretty close after four years of sharing. If you are feeling uneasy about revealing this about your past life, try taking some baby steps and going slow at first. See how your friend reacts to your story of being bullied and go from there. If she is open to your confiding, you can strengthen your relationship. You have overcome a lot, so be proud of your accomplishment in how you were able to work through this difficult time in your life and focus on how it has made you a stronger person. Good luck!