Just a phase or something more?

Question

I'm 16 right now and I've been going through some transitions. I've had friend problems that I dealt with. I've been doing terribly in math, which worries me. I'm realizing that I don't really have anyone who's close to me that I can turn to. As a result, I'm often found locked in my room listening to music for days at a time... My pet recently died... But what's worried me most is my loss of motivation. I used to work so hard without any problems or complaints, but now... Now it's like a struggle to get anything done. Homework and school are a burden that I too often cast off. My art has gone down the toilet, no inspiration. I find myself unconsciously distancing myself from people constantly. I'm irritated with everyone and every little thing that goes wrong. I hate it. Am i just going through one of those 'teenage' phases, or is this something more deeply rooted?

also, i've been really aggressive lately. the tiniest thing will set me off. and after school, i've had these awful pounding headaches. it's not every day. it's a few times a week.

Answer 1

I think it's some of both. The teen years can be a very difficult time and this sounds to me like depression or something similar. Which doesn't mean it's "just a phase", even if you're going through it in part because of your age. If this goes on for very long I would seek some sort of help, or at least more information.

Answer 2

Most of human life is "phases" as the bio-chemistry changes but
You have to realize that you will still have to function in society (the parents are not going to let you live in your room for years listening to music).
If you hide for too long, when you do re-emerge , you might be way behind in many things and have a huge job making up for lost time.
It is only a couple of years until you start fending for your self economically so best to get back on track while the task is do able .
Good luck , and welcome to 'normal' in the adult world.

Answer 3

This sounds like something you should maybe see a therapist about. Your situation very closely fits the clinical definition of depression. Maybe a professional can help you talk out some of what you're feeling, and link you with some peer groups so you can get out of your room and have someone to turn to when you start feeling down. Don't be afraid to get some help, and good luck to you.

Answer 4

It's a transition phase. You're discovering yourself. It's also known as teen angst. You're in between being a child and an adult.
It could be depression too (because your pet died), but, don't write yourself off yet.
Make some friends that YOU choose.
Your art will come back when your ready. Don't force it.

Good luck.

Answer 5

First thing : "It can't rain all the time!"
Second thing: I feel ya..and wish you all the best, because even though you probably wont admit it, you are ether in or are borderline Depressed!
Try to fined something to care about again, maybe your art, maybe a pet, something...do something that expresses who you are to the world and stop trying to be 'perfect' that's not realistic, give yourself a brake and a Little breathing room.

"It is not easy to find happiness in ourselves, and it is NOT possible to find it elsewhere." - Agnes Repplier

Answer 6

You sound like a person who is sensitive, talented, self-aware -- all excellent personality traits. My guess is that you are indeed just feeling a "teenage" phase. But given that you are already 16, and with college just ahead, you must consider that your grades now will dramatically effect your immediate and long-range future. I'd knuckle down, study hard, and try to surpress your feelings.....for now.

Answer 7

Go ahead and grieve. It will get all the stuff out of your system. You will then be able to get back to normal. Bad things happen to good people.