@keltothemoon You are awesome! You have expressed to us what so many young people go through. You have the insight to be reaching out for help, which is the first step towards feeling/getting better.

A couple of things to consider as you start along this path you have opened up for yourself. If it sounds like I am rambling, it is because my mind is charging ahead faster that my typing speed LOL Rule out any physical issues. Are you on any medications? Aim for a good physical exam to establish that there are no organic issues at play here. And while you are there, open up to the dr about your concerns. Remember, as a young man, you still have hormones laying foundation in your body, and that may contribute to your symptoms. Understandably, at this age, you are worried/concerned/ excited about where you will be heading after high school, and choices to be made. Like @artscaping, I am old too, but I can still recall the sea of possibilities and OMG! how do I make a decision? Where is that crystal ball so I can see what is the right path so I do not fail. You see, the pressure we and society put on us to succeed can be so great, we buckle under it.

Okay. Now, as far as telling your parents. You will make the right decision on the "how" you tell them. But it is important that you do tell them, and ask for their support. You have a group here on Mayo Connect to support you through this, but you also need live in-person support from family and friends. You may choose to be selective who you share with, because you don't want to "outed" for seeking help. I watched a show produced by NBC Sports about athletes and mental challenges; go to nbcsports.com and put in headstrong in their search bar. Being an athlete with challenges of any kind, physical or emotional/mental is not the stigma it once was.

You could choose to share your postings here, and all the responses you have received, with your folks. They will see there are many ready to jump in and applaud your desire for help, that what you are going through is not unusual. If they do not have much experience in how to accept/understand mental health treatment, this may help educate them. Let us know what you decide, and how we can help further.

Sorry for the long response!
Ginger